Lake County Gazette

Bike paths, sidewalks and other accessible features for cyclists, pedestrians and motorists alike will be realized by $111 million of funding for road improvement projects in 2016, the Lake County Department of Transportation said recently.

Lake County puts a high priority on ensuring that improvements are geared toward both economical and ecological sustainability. To that end, maintenance takes the form of resurfacing and/or patching rather than full road replacement when possible.

“Preserving our road network is always a top priority because keeping our pavements, bridges and other assets in good condition helps prevent more costly repairs and replacements down the road,” Lake County Board Chairman Aaron Lawlor said. “If we had to rebuild the existing county roadway network today, it would cost over $1.6 billion.”

Of 22 projects total, 14 have been designated for non-vehicle enhancements, including sidewalk connections, biking paths and bike lanes built into main roadways.

“Most people might not be aware of this, but whenever possible, bike paths are added during a reconstruction and widening project, and bike-friendly shoulders are added where appropriate during a resurfacing project,” Bonnie Thomson Carter, who serves as chairwoman of the county’s Public Works and Transportation Committee, said. “We work with local partners to find opportunities to fill the gaps in the non-motorized network, and we are proud of the progress we are making in this effort.”

Citizens are advised that resurfacing is scheduled for Hunt Club Road, 21st Street, Miller Road, Ela Road, MLK Jr. Drive, Wadsworth Road, Kenosha Avenue, Lewis Avenue and Buffalo Grove Road in the near future.