A new southbound ramp on the Tri-State Tollway is set to open Monday, easing traffic flow and boosting local economic activity. The ramp, connecting the southbound Tri-State to County Line Road and then to North Avenue, is expected to reduce congestion and improve access for the surrounding commercial and industrial corridors.
Officials from the Illinois Tollway emphasize that this addition helps link I-294 with North Avenue and Lake Street, addressing long-standing bottlenecks at the I-290 interchange that previously hindered both commuters and freight movement. Prior to this improvement, drivers often had to use the I-290 to I-88 route to reach the North Avenue area, which contributed to significant congestion.
During Monday’s morning flight, Chopper 7 captured footage of the new ramp coming together, highlighting its strategic position as a gateway to Northlake, Elmhurst, Franklin Park, and Bensenville. Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse pointed out that the area around North Avenue and Lake Street is one of the Tri-State Tollway’s most vital commercial and industrial corridors, underscoring the ramp’s potential impact on access and economic activity.
Officials also noted that the ramp project, in conjunction with improvements at the North Avenue interchange, should enhance movement to 294, North Avenue, and Lake Street, supporting both local businesses and freight operations as the region continues to grow.
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