IDOT Propose Changes to Illiana Expressway Route, Channahon Officials Upset

Original Post (6/7/12): The Illinois Department of Transportation has proposed a change to its Illiana Expressway route that now may include running through Channahon. The proposal has not been decided yet, but if it does get accepted, about 30 houses northwest of Bluff Road at Interstate 55 will be taken. Continue reading here.

Update (10/21/12): Channahon Mayor Joseph Cook says the proposed change for the Illiana Expressway route that would bring the highway near Channahon has been dropped. Continue reading here.

A truck drives on Bluff Road over I-55 in Channahon, IL on Monday June 4, 2012. One proposed route for Illiana Expressway would have west end connecting at Bluff Road and I-55. It would require removal of numerous homes. Plan does not sit will with Channahon officials. | Matt Marton~Sun-Times Media

State Officials Unveil the Preferred Route for Illiana Expressway

Original (2/29/12): Though it’s been “kicked around” for decades, it seems state officials are ready to start taking action to build the Illiana Expressway. Fast growing regions of the Chicago suburbs in Illinois and Indiana will be heavily affected, but the 47-mile route connecting I-55, I-57, and I-65 is not without its fair share of controversy – that controversy being the plethora of homes that would need to be destroyed to build the route. Continue reading here.

Update (4/23/12): With the approval of the Illiana Expressway looming, residents living along the proposed expressway route are beginning to realize that their homes will be bulldozed and they may not have the ability to stop it due to a new controversial ”quick-take” power. Continue reading here.

Update (5/8/12): The Illinana Expressway project has residents on edge as the Illinois house decides to act on “quick-take” legislation that would allow state officials to take land from property owners along the highway’s route. Continue reading here.

Update (8/3/12): 900 local residents attended an information event about the Illiana Expressway last Tuesday in Peotone, IL. Many attendees are having their lands taken to make way for the Illiana Expressway. Though the project will create thousands of jobs, individuals who have worked their whole life and moved to out to the country only to have their land taken feel cheated. Continue reading here.