Governor Quinn Announces $5.2 Million for Construction Projects in Cook County

PALOS PARK - Governor Pat Quinn today announced investments of $5.2 million for construction projects in Cook County. Funded by his Illinois Jobs Now! construction program, the projects are part of Governor Quinn's commitment to creating jobs and driving Illinois' economy forward.

"These projects will address local transportation needs in Palos Park, Lemont, Robbins and Evanston," Governor Quinn said. "They will also employ a number of construction workers, which will drive local economies forward."

The Illinois Department of Transportation will manage the projects.

Palos Park and Lemont

A 7.4 mile pedestrian path will be constructed in the Forest Preserve District of Cook County and the Villages of Palos Park and Lemont. It will begin at the intersection of Illinois Route 83 and the I & M Canal and run to 86th Avenue, and will include the necessary structures, signs, guard rails, and traffic signal modifications. D Construction, Inc. of Coal City was the lowest of three bidders for the work at $4,465,402.

Robbins

Claire Boulevard in Robbins will be improved from I-294 to 139th Street for $466,153 by Gallagher Asphalt Corporation of Thornton, the lowest of four bidders. The work includes curb and gutter replacement, sidewalk replacement, surfacing, pavement markings, and parkway restoration.

Evanston

Curb and gutter, sidewalk, drainage, and other work will be done at various Evanston locations for $274,815 by A. Lamp Concrete Contractors, Inc. of Schaumburg, the lowest of six bidders.

"I am thrilled to see continued investment in Southland infrastructure," State Senator Bill Cunningham (D-Chicago) said. "A $5 million injection into our local economy will spur economic growth throughout our communities, while providing necessary safety upgrades. We must continue investing in our local workers to get our state economy back on track."

"Providing safe pathways for residents is critical to making our neighborhoods more accessible and helping families enjoy the outdoors," State Representative Kelly Burke ( D-Evergreen Park) said. "This project will also help create new construction jobs in our area and potentially draw in new residents that will boost economic development in our communities."

The projects are part of Governor Quinn's $31 billion Illinois Jobs Now! program, which will support more than 439,000 jobs over six years. Illinois Jobs Now! is the largest construction program in Illinois history, and is one of the largest construction programs in the nation.