I-290 Blue Line Reconstruction Project Funding
I-290 Eisenhower Expressway and CTA Blue Line Funding Considerations
The segment of I-290 between I-94 and the I-88/I-294 interchange is currently under funding consideration as the an result of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) completed and receiving a Record of Decision by USDOT for the project in June 2017.
Concurrently, the reconstruction and modernization of the CTA Forest Park Branch of the Blue Line was approved as a result of the Forest Park Vision Study completed in 2017.
The projected cost in today’s dollars for the I-290 CTA Forest Park Blue Line Branch is more than $10 billion. Currently, a little over $1.6 billion has been allocated for the project. Historically, major projects such as this have relied heavily federal funding matched by local or state dollars as well as capital investments by the responsible agencies.
The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP)
The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) identified both the I-290 reconstruction and CTA Blue Line projects in their ON TO 2050 long range plan as constrained regionally significant projects. While full funding has not been identified for either project, they are both included in CMAP’s Transportation Improvement Program for future years past fiscal year 2026.
I-290 Blue Line Reconstruction Project Funding and Management
I-290 Blue Line Corridor Development Office
The size and complexity of the I-290 Blue Line Corridor Project requires a special approach to the planning, engineering, and reconstruction of the corridor. That is why in September of 2024 the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) announced the formation of a unified partnership between CMAP, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), and the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) to establish the I-290/Blue Line Corridor Development Office (CDO). Dubbed the Connect 290 Blue Program, it is committed to coordinate the many project partners and communities to:
- Establish a corridor mission and unified messaging for the project.
- Engage communities and local organizations to understand priorities
- Coordinate and support program implementation
- Develop a project funding and finance plan
More information on the Connect program is at connect290blue.com.
$10+
Billion
The I-290 Blue Line Reconstruction Project has a price tag in excess of $10 billion, making it one of the most expensive infrastructure projects in the country. Funding it will require an innovative approach using all available federal, state, regional and local resources.
Areas of Funding
Managed Lane Tolling
Learn more about the addition of a HOT lane strategy to improve I-290 congestion