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A new bridge connecting Illinois and Missouri is expected to
eventually ease supply chain issues around the country. The $531
million I-270 Chain of Rocks Bridge over the Mississippi River
is being paid for by both states, with Illinois picking up most
of the tab.
The I-270 loop connects many of the region’s warehouses and
distribution parks, ports, airports and rail yards on both sides
of the Mississippi River. Officials said nearly 70% of the
region’s industrial tenants occupying large warehouse space in
excess of 500,000 square feet are within 10 minutes of the
interstate.
The current bridge accommodates 51,000 vehicles a day, about 20%
of which are trucks, and the structure requires frequent
maintenance and repairs due to its age.
State Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, said the project is the
result of two states working together.
“This $500 million project wouldn’t be possible if it wasn’t for
the support of Missouri as well as the hard work and dedication
in a bipartisan manner to get that capitol bill,” said Hoffman.
Construction started last winter and is anticipated to wrap up
in 2026.
Officials cut the ribbon on MidAmerica St. Louis Airport’s
expanded terminal Tuesday. The $31 million project included $7
million in Illinois taxpayer funds. The project added an
additional 41,000 square feet to meet the needs of the growing
number of passengers at the airport.
Being so close to the state border, the elephant in the room is
the difference in gasoline prices between Missouri and Illinois.
Pritzker was asked about the substantial difference in gas
prices, which are about 80 cents a gallon cheaper in Missouri.
“In Illinois as a result of our motor fuel tax, we’re able to
build four times as much as Missouri is able to build,” Pritzker
said.
The annual inflation-based increase in Illinois’ gas tax goes
into effect July 1. The tax will increase to 45.4 cents per
gallon. In 2019, before Pritzker raised the tax, it was 19 cents
a gallon.
Kevin Bessler reports on statewide issues in
Illinois for the Center Square. He has over 30 years of
experience in radio news reporting throughout the Midwest.
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