Rebuilding the Quad Cities: Construction season brings more major improvements to region

MOLINE - Rebuild Illinois is continuing to improve mobility, safety and quality of life in the Quad Cities, with the Illinois Department of Transportation delivering multiple major projects this construction season. Made possible by Gov. JB Pritzker's historic capital program, 13 projects combined represent a total investment of more than $1 billion, creating and maintaining good-paying jobs throughout the region. ​

"The historic Rebuild Illinois program continues to transform our infrastructure and enhance key economic corridors across the state," said Gov. Pritzker. "Our ambitious capital program is putting Illinoisans to work as we improve regional transportation systems, encourage new economic activity and build a better future for all of Illinois."

Of the 13 major projects in the Quad Cities area, five are scheduled to be completed in 2026 and another is scheduled to begin this year, one is scheduled to begin in 2028, one is scheduled to begin in 2031 and the remaining project start dates are to be determined. ​ ​ ​ ​

"Infrastructure is the foundation of our economy," said state Sen. Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island). "By modernizing and repairing our roads we are laying the groundwork for a bright future in western Illinois. Taxpayers deserve programs that benefit their lives. Infrastructure is an investment that pays dividends for commuting workers, local businesses and everyday Illinoisans. I am proud to see these investments come to fruition and am excited to see the new economic activity these projects will bring."

"The hardworking people of the Quad Cities deserve to live in a city that serves them," said state Rep. Gregg Johnson (D-Rock Island). "With these major projects, we're remaining dedicated to that ideal. Not only will our transportation infrastructure receive a major boost, but more jobs will be created and we'll see increased foot traffic across the region."

"Reliable roads and bridges are essential to the families, farmers and businesses that call our region home," said state Rep. Dan Swanson (R-Woodhull). "These projects represent an important investment in safer travel, stronger communities and continued economic growth across western Illinois. I look forward to seeing this work completed responsibly, efficiently and with as little disruption as possible for local residents."

"Critical infrastructure like our roads and bridges impact so many aspects of life in our communities, including our region's economic vitality," said Rock Island County Board Chairman Richard "Quijas" Brunk. "The importance of this investment from the governor's Rebuild Illinois program cannot be overstated."

"We are thankful for the continued support by IDOT and the state of Illinois for major projects like the ones in this cycle of funding," said Moline Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati. "Partnership for improving our transportation network is essential for our continued success. We very much appreciate it."

Passed in 2019, Rebuild Illinois is investing a total of $33.2 billion over six years into the state's aging transportation system, creating jobs and promoting economic growth. Rebuild Illinois is not only the largest capital program in state history, but also the first that touches all modes of transportation: roads and bridges, transit, waterways, freight and passenger rail, aviation, and bicycle and pedestrian accommodations. ​ ​ ​

"Thanks to Gov. Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois, we are continuing to deliver transformational projects up and down the state," said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. "We look forward to another safe construction season that benefits the region for decades to come." ​

Accomplishments through Year Seven of Rebuild Illinois include $25.6 billion of improvements statewide to 24,498 lane miles of highway, 959 bridges and 1,475 additional safety improvements. Visit https://idot.click/Rebuild-Illinois for information and highlights of other Rebuild Illinois projects happening throughout the state.