New state maps available      

[AUG. 18, 2005]  SPRINGFIELD -- A new state highway map is available at the Illinois State Fair this week. The new map is proving to be a bargain for taxpayers, costing the state about half of what it paid two years ago.

"The new state highway map is a valuable resource for motorists and a great deal for taxpayers," said Illinois Department of Transportation Secretary Timothy W. Martin. "We are demonstrating that by teaming up with the private sector, we can provide a valuable service to the people of Illinois at a reduced cost."

The Department of Transportation was able to reduce the cost to taxpayers by teaming with Best Western International as a corporate partner to offset printing costs. Under the deal, Best Western International pays the state $105,000 and gets to display its logo on the map, as well as at map distribution areas throughout Illinois.

After payment for the corporate sponsorship, the total cost to the state for the maps this year will be about $170,000 for the 2.75 million maps produced -- down from $328,000 when the map was last updated, in 2003.

The Illinois Department of Transportation produces a new state highway map every other year. The maps are distributed to the public free of charge and are available throughout the state at IDOT rest areas, tourism information centers, government facilities and other areas frequented by motorists. Maps will also be shared through the Illinois Office of Tourism as part of the Illinois Travel kit, which is available worldwide upon request.

At the state fair, copies of the map are available at the Department of Transportation exhibit, which is located near the Dairy Building. Maps will also be available at the Department of Transportation exhibit at the Illinois State Fair in DuQuoin, later this month.

[Illinois Department of Transportation news release]