Lincoln Station Renovation Named "Project of the Year"

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that the Illinois chapter of the American Public Works Association has recognized the renovation of the historic passenger rail depot in Lincoln as its "Project of the Year."

"Projects that preserve history and provide modern service and safety improvements always stand out - and the Lincoln station did just that," said Illinois Transportation Secretary Randy Blankenhorn. "We are pleased to receive this award, but even more proud of the partnerships we built with the City of Lincoln, Amtrak and all other stakeholders to make their vision into reality."

The $4 million project restored the station to passenger use after it was closed in 1972. As part of the larger IDOT effort to increase passenger speeds and reliability on the Chicago-to-St. Louis line, the project consisted of a full renovation of the depot building, including a new boarding platform and upgraded amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and parking for both vehicles and bikes.

The renovation focused on maintaining the building's long history and preserving artifacts from the station's inception in 1911. The remodeled facility showcases restored windows, doors and the original ticket counter with a scale once used to weigh luggage.

The U.S.52-Illinois 64 bridge was awarded "Best Bridge" in the category of major bridges costing more than $75 million. Connecting Savanna, Ill., and Sabula, Iowa, over the Mississippi River, the new tied-arch span opened to traffic in November.

The project improved safety by providing a wider structure to better accommodate larger trucks, bikes and disabled vehicles. With no other options to cross the river within miles, extensive public input was crucial to the project's success. Built in 1932, the old bridge was demolished after the new bridge was finished and open to traffic.