Rail competes for top transportation project

The transformation of Chicago-to-St. Louis passenger rail, including the introduction of higher speeds, is a finalist for the grand prize in the America’s Transportation Awards, the top honor for state departments of transportation.

The multi-year project on the state’s most popular rail line was recognized for establishing 110 mph speeds for the first time in Illinois, helping to better connect communities and major institutions while improving safety, convenience and accessibility.

“We are proud to receive this recognition for our efforts on behalf of Illinois and excited to showcase the crucial role our state plays as the transportation hub of North America,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “This project has made measurable improvements to people’s lives and helps ensure our communities are even better places to work, live and raise a family.”

The project now competes for the national Grand Prize and the People's Choice Award. Both come with $10,000 in prize money for a charity or not-for-profit chosen by the winning states. An independent panel of transportation industry experts will select the Grand Prize winner, while the general public will decide the People's Choice Award through an online vote.

The winning projects will be announced in October in Philadelphia. Online voting begins today for the People’s Choice Award at americastransportationawards.org and continues through Oct. 29. Individuals can cast no more than one vote per day per project.