IDOT TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETINGS ON 2007 STATE TRANSPORTATION PLAN

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) will hold five public meetings on the long-term State Transportation Plan, starting November 13th.  The current plan was revised in December 2005.  To comply with state law, an updated plan is scheduled to be completed by December 31, 2007.  Members of the public will have the opportunity to learn about the State Transportation Plan, and ask questions at each public meeting.

Dates, times and locations of the public meetings are as follows:

“Transportation planning is an ongoing process and as existing plans and programs are implemented, new needs and priorities evolve,” said IDOT Secretary Milton R. Sees.  “We encourage members of the public to participate in these plan review meetings.”

The Illinois Department of Transportation assesses the needs of its systems and the traveling public to determine the best way to invest transportation funds.  The State Transportation Plan provides a policy framework for the development of IDOT’s programs.  The policies developed in the plan are intended to guide IDOT in developing solutions to meet growing mobility needs of residents and workers, support the state economy, preserve the environment, and enhance the quality of life in a safe, secure and cost-effective manner.

In July 2007, the department submitted special reports amending its plan.  Since then, IDOT has worked on further refining the plan by developing a plan summary, updating special reports, and establishing an action plan for public involvement.

Citizens will be able to view a presentation and talk with IDOT representatives at each of the public meetings.  If you are not able to attend, please visit www.IllinoisTransportationPlan.org to learn more, and to share your comments.  The comment period ends December 17, 2007.

All five of the public meetings sites are accessible to persons with disabilities.  If special accommodations or interpreters are needed, please contact IDOT at 217-782-6332.