To modernize tolling operations and improve mobility for motorists traveling through one of the Chicago region’s busiest expressways, the Illinois Tollway advanced a fast‑track program to convert four plazas on the Tri‑State Tollway to open road tolling. STV provided construction management services for simultaneous retrofits at northbound Plaza 39 (83rd Street), southbound Plaza 36 (82nd Street), Plaza 35 (Cermak Road) and Plaza 33 (Irving Park Road). This systemwide effort enabled toll collection at expressway speeds while reducing congestion and improving safety.
What challenges did STV address?
The work required a rapid, coordinated delivery approach across multiple locations while maintaining roadway operations in a high‑traffic corridor. Key challenges included reconstructing concrete pavement for new lanes, upgrading tolling infrastructure, modifying building systems and managing complex work sequencing to avoid disruptions. At Irving Park Road, the team also needed to accommodate major geometric changes, including new ramps and a bridge structure.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV oversaw reconstruction of plaza pavements, widening of shoulders and the mainline bridge at Irving Park Road, and construction of a new bridge to carry ramp traffic. The team coordinated installation of electronic toll collection systems, plaza building modifications, tolling equipment and landscaping improvements. STV monitored schedule, coordinated with contractors and ensured quality across four simultaneously active work zones.
How does this project benefit the community?
The conversion to open road tolling reduces congestion, enhances driver safety and improves travel reliability for commuters and freight traffic. The upgrades support faster, more efficient movement through a major regional transportation corridor.
Key stats and accolades
- Four toll plazas retrofitted simultaneously
- New ramps and a bridge constructed at Irving Park Road
- Shoulder and bridge widening to support open road tolling
- Upgraded electronic toll collection systems
