Chicago City Wire

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is urging the public to vote for the Chicago-to-St. Louis rail improvement project, “Connecting Illinois via High-Speed Rail,” in a national competition. The project is vying for recognition as the top transportation initiative in the country and could win $10,000 in prize money, which IDOT plans to donate to Illinois Operation Lifesaver. Voting is open daily at americastransportationawards.org.

“During Rail Safety Week, we are proud to be in a position to support the important work happening at Illinois Operation Lifesaver,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “For the fifth time in seven years, IDOT is competing for the right to claim the best, most impactful project in the country. We ask you to please give us a hand and vote. Let’s bring this award back to Illinois where it belongs.”

Illinois Operation Lifesaver focuses on reducing collisions, injuries, and fatalities at railroad crossings throughout Illinois’ nearly 7,400 miles of active tracks. The nonprofit organization conducts public awareness campaigns and offers free safety presentations by authorized volunteers.

“Connecting rail commuters throughout the state of Illinois, safely and effectively, mirrors one of many priorities of Illinois Operation Lifesaver. This award will be instrumental in advancing our organization’s mission of raising awareness of rail safety education for commuters and motorists,” said Aisha Jackson, State Coordinator for Illinois Operation Lifesaver. “With the support of IDOT, we can further educate communities and help prevent tragic incidents around rail tracks, keeping Illinois residents safe.”

As a Top 12 finalist for project of the year in America’s Transportation Awards—hosted by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), AAA, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce—Illinois aims to secure the People’s Choice honor. Public voting continues online until October 29.

The “Connecting Illinois via High-Speed Rail” project has upgraded service along the Chicago-to-St. Louis corridor by increasing train speeds from 79 mph to 110 mph through a $2 billion investment. This initiative not only enhances travel efficiency but also promotes balanced transportation modes across one of Midwest's busiest passenger routes.

Communities such as Joliet, Dwight, Pontiac, Normal, Lincoln, Springfield, Carlinville, and Alton have benefited from new or renovated stations featuring improved amenities like free Wi-Fi and expanded bicycle accommodations. Safety enhancements include four-quadrant gates, pedestrian gates, loop detectors, and fencing.