The Illinois Tollway is moving forward with a long-term infrastructure proposal that could raise toll rates starting in 2027, as part of a massive $26.5 billion capital plan aimed at modernizing and expanding highways across the Chicago region, according to CBS Chicago.
The proposal centers on a multi-decade construction strategy designed to reduce congestion, rebuild aging roadways, and improve major travel corridors that thousands of drivers rely on daily across Northern Illinois.
What the plan includes
The Tollway’s “Driving Connections” program outlines projects that would run from 2027 through 2042. The focus includes major upgrades along some of the region’s busiest expressways, including I-294, I-90, I-88, and I-355, along with continued development around key freight and airport routes near O’Hare.
Planned improvements include widening congested lanes, replacing outdated bridges, modernizing interchanges, and upgrading toll collection systems to improve traffic flow and efficiency.
Officials say the scale of the plan is meant to address both current congestion issues and long-term population and economic growth across the Chicago metro area.
Proposed toll increases
To help fund the project, the Tollway is proposing an increase of roughly 45 cents per toll for passenger vehicles using I-PASS, along with higher rates for commercial trucks. The proposal also includes scheduled toll adjustments tied to inflation every two years beginning in 2029.
If approved, the new toll structure would take effect on January 1, 2027.
Why officials say it’s necessary
The Illinois Tollway says the system is fully supported by toll revenue and does not rely on state or local tax funding for construction and maintenance. As a result, officials argue that long-term infrastructure upgrades depend directly on driver contributions.
They also say the investment is aimed at improving travel reliability, reducing traffic delays, and supporting economic activity across the region by keeping freight and commuter routes moving efficiently.
What happens next
Before anything is finalized, the Tollway will hold public hearings across its service area, giving residents and commuters the opportunity to review the proposal and share feedback.
A final vote from the Tollway Board is expected later in 2026. If approved, drivers would begin seeing the new toll rates at the start of 2027.
The proposal marks one of the most significant funding plans in recent years for Illinois roadway infrastructure, with impacts expected across daily commutes in the Chicago area and beyond.
