Chicago Construction News staff writer
McLean County has been awarded a $675,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to plan and design the final nine miles of the Historic Route 66 Bike and Pedestrian Trail. This project will focus on extending the trail in the northern part of the county, a pivotal step in completing a major active transportation project.
The grant, awarded through the DOT’s 2024 Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program, will fund the planning and design of the trail segments stretching from Lexington to the Livingston County line near Chenoa.
“I am thrilled to announce that McLean County has been awarded this investment to extend the historic Route 66 bike trail,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “And I’m excited that families in McLean County will have safe opportunities to move around, get active, and explore the wonderful community. I was proud to champion this project and can’t wait to see how it will benefit our neighbors in Central Illinois.”
The funding is in addition to the more than six miles of the trail previously announced for construction in 2025. Once completed, McLean County will boast the longest continuous active transportation infrastructure between St. Louis and Chicago, totaling 38 miles. The completion of the remaining 9 miles will finalize the 47-mile trail in McLean County, creating a comprehensive active transportation corridor linking two of the Midwest’s largest metropolitan areas.
“This investment is a critical step towards completing a 47-mile trail that will enhance connectivity and accessibility in our region,” said Cathy Dreyer, assistant county administrator. “With the RAISE 24 funding, we are moving closer to making this ambitious project a reality, and we look forward to the benefits it will bring to our community.”
The Historic Route 66 Bike and Pedestrian Trail is part of 148 projects selected nationwide under the 2024 RAISE grant program.
