Give Your I-80 Input at Public IDOT Meeting

As the state looks for ways to improve safety and transportation along a portion of Interstate 80, the public is invited to share ideas.

The I-80 Phase I Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Study is underway, and the Illinois Department of Transportation is holding a second public hearing this week to answer questions and hear suggestions about the project.

The public meeting is from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 28, in the Victorian Ballroom of the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate, 15 S. Richards St. in Joliet.

There will be a continuous PowerPoint presentation, and attendees will have the opportunity to view study exhibits and speak with IDOT and study team representatives.

The I-80 study area extends approximately 16 miles from Ridge Road on the west to U.S. Route 30 on the east, and passes through New Lenox, as well as the communities of Minooka, Channahon, Shorewood, Rockdale and Joliet. According to the project's website, the study is taking a detailed look at the current and future transportation needs of the corridor, including an analysis of existing roadway and bridge deficiencies, safety and capacity issues and future transportation needs.

The purpose of this meeting, the website states, is to obtain public input on the project purpose and need and solicit ideas on the development of potential project alternatives.