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The project is part of the governor's $33 billion Rebuild
Illinois capital program approved in 2019 and funded by tax and
fee increases, including a doubling of the state's gas tax. The
latest project is expected to stop flooding in the Lake Forest
area, which in the past has experienced several events. The
Illinois Department of Transportation and Pritzker discussed the
project on Thursday.
"Thanks to a more than $18 million investment made possible by
Rebuild Illinois, we have entirely relocated and reconstructed
the existing pump station, built two new detention ponds to
handle any excess flow from the pump station, in addition to
making multiple safety improvements that alleviate flooding and
guarantee access to this major roadway," Pritzker said.
The pump station will fix issues many Lake Forest residents face
every time it rains, Pritzker said.
"Anyone who frequents this area knows all too well that the
viaduct on Deerpath Road and U.S. Route 41 is prone to severe
flooding every time there is a major storm," Pritzker said.
"Regular road closures keep children from getting to school,
prevent parents from getting to the grocery store, and in the
worst cases blocks families from getting their loved ones to the
hospital."
IDOT Secretary Omer Osman said the project will have an impact
on safety as well.
"Residents of Lake Forest and the surrounding area now can
safely count on the roads they depend on to stay open during
major rains, ensuring more quality time at home with their
families," Osman said.
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