May 15, 2025

"Take the Exit" podcast explores IDOT topics

We’re proud to announce the introduction of “Take the Exit,” IDOT’s podcast that explores the individuals, projects and stories shaping transportation in Illinois. 

Our first episode, we sit down with Juan D. Pava, Highway Safety Programs Unit Chief, to discuss work zone safety as construction season commences across the state. Tune in to learn how we are working to keep everyone safe while improving our roads.. 

New episodes of “Take the Exit” will be released monthly. You can look forward to hearing from experts across IDOT, peeking behind the scenes of day-to-day operations, brushing up on safety topics and learning about projects. 

With a video and audio format, the podcast adds to the array of IDOT media to reach more people and provides a closer look at ways we serve Illinois and shape quality of life in your community. 

Watch and Listen:

YouTube

Spotify

Jim Sterr celebrates 50 years with IDOT

When Jim Sterr started at IDOT in 1975, the average cost of a gallon of gas was 57 cents and the state’s motor fuel tax was 7 cents. Suffice to say, Sterr has seen a lot of changes over the last 50 years.

Read more.

Region 2, District 2: Two resurfacing projects are underway on U.S. 20 in Winnebago and Stephenson counties to bring smoother driving surfaces for the public. 

In Winnebago County, nearly 8 miles is being worked on from Pecatonica Road to Falconer Road near Rockford, a $3.5 million project.  In Stephenson County, a $1.5 million project will improve the road between Rees Road near Lena to Flansburg Road near Freeport. 

Before wrapping up in July, both projects will have daily lane closures controlled by flaggers.  

Region 3, District 5: A new ramp from northbound I-57 to westbound I-74 in Champaign opened May 5. The ramp is part of the ongoing reconstruction of the I-57/74 interchange.

Additionally, the ramps from northbound I-57 to eastbound I-74 and from eastbound I-74 to Prospect Avenue closed May 5 for about a month to facilitate connections to new pavement.

Letting Update

June 13 is the next letting for statewide construction projects that are scheduled in 2025. Here are some dates to note in advance of the letting.

• May 23 at 4:30 p.m. Prequalification cutoff (Date that contractors must be qualified to bid on contracts.)
• June 6 at 4:30 p.m. Joint venture cutoff (three contractor limit. Date for these groups who want to bid can do so).   
• June 10 at 4:30 p.m. Request for authorization to bid cutoff (Final date for contractors who are authorized to bid on contracts). 
• June 13 at noon Letting (Bids can be submitted until 11:59 a.m. on the day. Bids are shut down at noon). 

If you are new to the IDOT bid letting process or need updated information, following are some helpful resources:

• Transportation Bulletin
• EBids
• Letting Schedule
• Electronic Subscription Service
• Prequalification
• Authorization to Bid
• Bid Bonds