Chicago Construction News staff writer
Construction is set to begin on the $19.9 million Air Mobility Drive extension, a critical infrastructure project funded by the Rebuild Illinois capital program. This project will extend Air Mobility Drive by about one mile, connecting Illinois 158/177 with Illinois 161. The extension aims to reduce congestion, increase safety on surrounding roads, and enhance regional mobility.
“With the commencement of the Air Mobility Drive extension in St. Clair County, we’re not just laying concrete—we’re building Illinois’ future,” Gov. J.B. Pritzker said in a statement. “Through our visionary Rebuild Illinois capital program, we’re transforming infrastructure neglect into opportunity by enhancing safety and forging stronger regional connections.
“I commend the collaborative efforts in St. Clair County that are making this initiative a reality for the people of Illinois.”
Planning for the extension dates back to the 1970s. The project will involve constructing a two-lane road with 10-foot shoulders, a bridge over the Loop Creek tributary, and implementing necessary drainage ditches and culverts.
“The Air Mobility Drive extension not only addresses current traffic conditions but also helps position the region for growth far into the future,” Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman said. “Thanks to Rebuild Illinois, important projects like this one that had been on the drawing board for years are happening throughout the state. We are excited to get to work.”
Construction is expected to take approximately two years, with completion anticipated by summer 2026. There will be no closures or detours and minimal public impacts during construction, though building the connections at Illinois 158/177 and Illinois 161 will require lane restrictions. Upon completion, the new road will be designated Illinois 158.
Over the next six years, the Illinois Department of Transportation plans to improve more than 3,000 miles of highway and nearly 10 million square feet of bridge deck as part of Rebuild Illinois’ $33.2 billion investment into all modes of transportation.
