ROADS/BRIDGES: Illinois lawmakers ready to work up another transportation funding bill

Despite the failing condition, Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner is still going to hit the road.

With a $31 billion program coming to an end, and Illinois roads crumbling at an accelerated rate, Rauner will embark on a “listening tour” in an attempt to pass a new transportation bill before lawmakers leave for summer recess.

Rauner has talked about upgrading the infrastructure since he was officially sworn in as governor of Illinois back in January, but his rhetoric has lacked details. Video gambling and higher taxes on alcohol and license plates fueled the $31 billion program under then Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn, and there is talk that state legislators could raise the state gas tax this time around.

The Illinois DOT and the Illinois Capital Development Board will join Rauner on the listening tour.

“These meetings with the Capital Development Board are a listening tour to help us rebuild and craft a plan going forward that allows Illinois to continue to serve as the transportation hub of North America and build top-notch state facilities so we can grow our economy and improve our quality of life,” said Illinois DOT Secretary Randall Blankenhorn.