I-290/I-88 Interchange Project at I-294
I-290/I-88 Interchange Project At I-294
The I-290/I-88 Interchange at I-294 is one of the most important interchanges on the Tollway system. It is not only an important connection for commuter and local traffic, but also an important part of the freight network. With more than 300,000 vehicles using the interchange every day, this is one of the most notorious interchanges for backups.
Throughout the planning process of the Central Tri-State Project commuters, the business community and freight carriers expressed the need to fix the I-290/I-88 Interchange at I-294. Addressing backups and alleviating congestion on this Interchange was also a recommendation of the Central Tri-State Corridor Planning Council.
In 2021 and 2022, the Illinois Tollway will be reconstructing the St. Charles Road Interchange at I-290 as part of the I-290/I-88 Interchange at I-294 Project. This work includes removing and replacing the St. Charles Road Bridge over I-294 and repairing and replacing the bridge deck on the bridge over I-290. In addition, the four interchange ramps on the east side of I-290 will be reconstructed and a portion of westbound I-290 will be widened. Additional work includes retaining wall construction, drainage improvements and roadway lighting improvements.
Project Videos
Project Overview
This video examines the current conditions of the I-290/I-88 interchange at I-294. Improvements at this interchange will reduce backups and dramatically improve the chokepoint so that commuters, travelers and commerce can more efficiently reach their destinations.
I-294 Southbound to I-88 Westbound
This animation depicts existing and proposed conditions for a driver traveling from I-294 Southbound to I-88 Westbound. The animation highlights that the proposed exit ramp is barrier separated from merging I-290 traffic which will alleviate heavy congestion due to weaving movements.
I-290 Westbound at St. Charles Road
This animation depicts existing and proposed conditions for a driver exiting I-290 Westbound at St. Charles Road. The animation highlights that the proposed exit is much earlier along I-290 than the existing exit, preparing drivers for this change in roadway conditions.
I-290 Eastbound to I-294 Southbound
This animation depicts existing and proposed conditions for a driver traveling from I-290 Eastbound to I-294 Southbound. The animation highlights that the proposed exit ramp is barrier separated from merging I-88 traffic which will alleviate heavy congestion due to weaving movements.
I-294 Northbound to I-290 Westbound and I-294 Southbound to I-88 Westbound
This animation shows a drone view of existing and proposed conditions for I-294 Northbound to I-290 Westbound and I-294 Southbound to I-88 Westbound. It highlights the areas of congestion and how the proposed geometry will alleviate heavy congestion due to weaving and truck turning movements.
I-294 Northbound to I-290 Westbound
This animation depicts existing and proposed conditions for a driver traveling from I-294 Northbound to I-290 Westbound. The animation highlights that the proposed exit ramp eliminates the loop ramp in lieu of a “fly under” ramp which will relieve slow truck turning movements.