Jacobs has been selected by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) for two projects to modernise the I-290 (Eisenhower Expressway) corridor, a key connection within the Chicago area transportation network.
The I-290 is a principal route for commuters and freight in the greater Chicago area, serving over 200,000 vehicles daily according to project details.
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The scope of work includes replacing the Indiana Harbor Belt railroad bridge, a project expected to support future corridor widening and help reduce traffic congestion.
Jacobs will handle the design and project management for this replacement and intends to apply “accelerated construction staging” to reduce interruptions in a busy freight route while ensuring protection of key utilities.
Separately, the company will oversee and inspect the installation of a supplemental storm sewer beneath I-290.
This element of the project involves tunnelling methods, drawing on specialist expertise in underground construction and quality assurance.
The storm sewer upgrade is designed to enhance the corridor’s overall resilience and capacity.
The I-290 Eisenhower Expressway corridor links the western suburbs to Chicago’s central business district and serves as a main route between south Cook County and major employment zones in the I-88 Technology Corridor and O’Hare International Airport.
Jacobs executive vice-president Tom Meinhart said: “By integrating our expertise in transportation, water and tunnelling, we will deliver comprehensive infrastructure solutions that ease congestion, enhance safety for commuters and freight operators, while strengthening stormwater management to reduce flooding risks, creating a more resilient, connected corridor for the communities of Greater Chicago.”
Jacobs has been involved in various infrastructure projects internationally, including the Red and Purple Line Modernization in Chicago and the Dunkettle Interchange Upgrade in Ireland.
The company operates globally, generating about $12bn in annual revenue and employing around 47,000 people.
It provides services spanning planning and design through to project and life-cycle management across transportation, water, manufacturing, energy, environment and life sciences.
