Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn last week announced the formation of an advisory council to help with the planning and building of the Elgin-O’Hare West Bypass to expand access to O’Hare International Airport.
Quinn said in a statement that the council will serve as a sounding board for state transportation officials as they explore potential financial structures and funding sources for the $3.6 billion project. The group also is charged with exploring job growth, freight movement, transit features, workforce diversity, bike and pedestrian enhancements, and green technologies as they relate to the project.
The council — established by executive order — will include 19 members from local governments, the business community, regional planning groups, labor and public finance.
“Constructing the Elgin-O’Hare West Bypass will help O’Hare International Airport to reach its full potential as an economic engine for Northeast Illinois and support our continued economic recovery by creating 80,000 jobs,” Quinn said.
Environmental and engineering studies are underway and the project has received a federal award of $140 million. Construction could begin in 2013.
