Tollway panel OKs $69 million Route 47 interchange

By HILARY GOWINS

On Wednesday, the Planning Committee of the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority Board signed off on a $69 million agreement to build that full interchange. This project is part of the $12 billion highway expansion plan, which recently caused the Illinois Tollway Board to raise tolls 87 percent, nearly doubling most fares.

Travelers on Route 47 wanting to access I-90 westbound currently have to get on either at Randall Road or U.S. Route 20.

The Route 47 interchange project will pay for six ramps, electronic toll collection, bridge reconstruction on Route 47 over Interstate 90, local traffic signals, and improved lighting.

Johnson said the target date to begin construction is April 2012.

IDOT said the project was expected to be finished in 2013.

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