[This transcript was generated automatically from audio using AI and hasn't been reviewed by a person -- it can contain mistakes, including plausible-sounding sentences that were never actually said. Treat it as a starting point, not a verbatim record.]

[34:04] We're on the air.
[34:09] Okay, good morning and welcome to the Technology Operations Committee meeting for August 19, 2026.
[34:15] Chris, will you please do the roll call?
[34:18] Dr. Connelly?
[34:19] Here.
[34:19] Dr. Perk here.
[34:20] Dr. Nettemire?
[34:21] Chair Sweeney?
[34:23] Here.
[34:23] Mr. Chairman, we have a call.
[34:24] Thank you.
[34:25] I have a first order of business today's public comment.
[34:27] During this portion of the meeting, members of the public are invited to address the committee.
[34:32] We have speakers, limit their remarks at two minutes.
[34:35] Is there anyone present who wishes to address the committee at this time?
[34:40] That's it.
[34:42] I should ask. Is there anyone that wanted to make contact at the committee meeting, rather than at the board meeting?
[34:56] We've already started the chair's items.
[34:58] We have consideration minutes.
[35:00] Technology and operations committee meeting held July 16, 2026 may have a motion to approve the
[35:06] minutes as presented. So moved. Second, it's been moved in a second. Are there any questions
[35:12] or requests to amend the minutes?
[35:17] Very none. All those in favour, signify by saying aye.
[35:20] I was opposed to saying any. Motion passes. The minister approved. I have no additional items.
[35:27] I'll show I will turn the floor to our executive director for some.
[35:32] Thank you very much, Chair Smeaning.
[35:34] I have no items on to report so we can move on this morning to item for consideration.
[35:38] Under information technology, we have two items this morning and our chief information officer
[35:43] Mike Shea will present these items for the committee's consideration.
[35:47] Mike.
[35:48] Thank you, Executive Director.
[35:49] Good morning, Chair Smeaning and good morning directors.
[35:52] The first item is the award of the Order Against an Illinois Department of Innovation and
[35:56] technology master contract with Gartner reported for IT research and advisory services.
[36:02] This contract provides subscription-based licenses for seniors full-way staff as well as
[36:07] access to all technical staff at the full-way to the technical articles within their
[36:12] growth. Gartner also provides us guidance on best practices. We've utilized them for data governance
[36:19] and ethical AI policies as well as they keep help keep us abreast of cyber security trends
[36:24] right now they're currently helping us prepare for quantum-do encryption issues anticipated in the future.
[36:31] They also provide contractor view and assist us in software selection.
[36:36] This provides access for six senior technical staff.
[36:40] If IT staff, as well as I mentioned all technical staff for the whole way,
[36:45] and Gardner has committed to meeting 11% the ED goal as established in the Master Contract,
[36:50] The cost from the importance of the do it master contract and if it reviewed by the information
[36:54] technology department.
[36:55] Award is recommended to gardener incorporated for contract 26-1331 for IT research and advisory
[37:02] services for an amount not to exceed 493,338 dollars for a 1 year term.
[37:11] Second item is an award of a do it master contract with CDW government LLC for CardiGraph
[37:17] software subscriptions maintenance support. The contract provides a source to continue to use
[37:22] of cartograph software licenses including maintenance and support. Cartograph is a user
[37:27] centric solution that has been deployed in hundreds of cities, counties and state agencies
[37:31] to manage asset infrastructure. This operation management system provides the most complete
[37:37] work order service request and preventative maintenance and asset management tools set used by
[37:41] our roadway and facility maintenance staff as well as our general engineering consultant.
[37:45] The told-way has dedicated significant time, effort and financial resources to CardiGraph and CardiGraph has been integrated with multiple told-way systems, including Catapult Trimble and our traffic incident management system.
[37:59] The software has anticipated processes developed. The use of software, the process development and the use of the software would continue to provide operational efficiencies.
[38:09] We call it certain accordance with the do it master contract and have been reviewed by the information technology department.
[38:15] The award is recommended to cdwlc for government for contract 261361 for cartograph software subscriptions, maintenance and support.
[38:25] In an amount not to exceed $800,000 for a two-year term.
[38:29] With that I'm glad to answer any questions.
[38:35] Thank you.
[38:45] Practicing?
[38:46] Yeah.
[38:47] Thank you.
[38:48] Thank you,
[38:51] Mike.
[38:53] We have the motion to approve the placement of the information technology items number one on the full board agenda.
[39:00] So moved to the second.
[39:02] There's been moved in a second.
[39:03] Are there any questions or concerns on the item?
[39:08] Hearing none.
[39:09] All those in favor signify by saying aye.
[39:12] Those opposed saying aye.
[39:14] Motion passes information technology item one is approved for placement on the August Board meeting agenda with the committee.
[39:21] recommendation. I have a motion to approve placement of information and
[39:27] technology adding two on the full board agenda. So moved. Second. It's been moved
[39:31] in a second. Are there any questions or concerns on this item?
[39:37] None. All those in favour, signify by saying aye. Aye. Those opposed saying aye.
[39:43] The motion passes. Information and technology item number two is approved for
[39:47] and I always board meeting.
[39:49] Do you want to know what the committee's recommendation?
[39:53] Thank you very much.
[39:54] Your Sweeney.
[39:55] This morning, under facilities and upgrade operation.
[39:59] We have one item.
[40:00] The committee's consideration. And this month, our chief of facilities and fleet aims out of it, we'll present this item.
[40:08] Thank you.
[40:09] Senator, good morning. Chair Sweeney and one director.
[40:12] I do have one item to present. This item is a total order against a CMS master contract with
[40:19] I'll try to incorporate it to purchase front end load.
[40:24] Out to four, the warp rate is located at Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
[40:28] This contract provides a source to purchase seven caterpillar front end loaders.
[40:33] These loaders are used at the 12 maintenance scratches.
[40:36] The loaders, main function, is to move salt into the salt dumps in the
[40:41] follow-mons and fill our plout trucks with salt in the winter.
[40:45] In the spring and summer, the loaders are used for various tests
[40:48] that require pushing and moving heavy materials, including sand, dirt and gravel.
[40:54] The seven loaders requested a replacement for existing loaders to have exceeded the
[40:59] total waste established replacement criteria of 7,000 engine hours, which is roughly
[41:04] about 10 years, or if the condition of the loader warrants replacement.
[41:10] The front loaders are used in a highly corrosive environment, and our condition can reach
[41:14] a point where they cannot be repaired.
[41:17] The old front end loaders will be solid on the state's side bit.
[41:21] What website, we currently have a fleet of 30 front end loaders, which includes the seven that we are replacing.
[41:28] The CMS Master Contract, the allow agencies to purchase caterpillar, or Volvo front end loaders.
[41:34] We selected the caterpillar loaders, because we have some already, and we find them easy to maneuver and repair.
[41:41] The front end loaders are actually made in Athens, Georgia.
[41:47] The costs are in accordance with the CMS master contract and there were four kids on the CMS master and we have reviewed the bids by our department.
[41:58] Award is recommended for contracts 26 that one, two, two, one for the one-time purchase of seven caterpillar for an unloader from all before in the amount and the amount not to exceed one million,
[42:12] and $670.586.75.
[42:21] Thank you, Dave.
[42:22] Thank you.
[42:23] May I have a motion to approve placement of facilities and fleet operations?
[42:28] Item one on the full board agenda.
[42:30] So moved.
[42:31] Move, then second.
[42:33] The other questions are concerns on this item.
[42:39] Hearing none, all those in favour of the second five by nine.
[42:42] Those are policy names.
[42:43] Motion to ask is fleet cost facilities and fleet item one is approved for a placement on the audit board meeting agenda with communities recommendation under unfinished business next on on the agenda unfinished business
[42:59] Is there any unfinished business committee wishes to discuss here
[43:06] in on is there any new business that the
[43:14] There's no further business before the committee may have a
[43:17] motion to adjourn. So moved, second, second. All those in favor, second, five, or
[43:23] saying aye. Aye. Those opposed to say nay. Motion passes. Thank you.
[43:32] Mr. Finance. All right. Good morning and welcome to the Finance and
[43:35] Audit Committee meeting of August 19, 2026, Christie. Will you please call
[43:39] them all?
[43:40] Mr. Connelly.
[43:41] Mr. Bill Ness. Here. Dr. Metta.
[43:43] Here.
[43:44] Mr. Connelly. Here.
[43:45] Mr. Chairman, we have a quarry.
[43:47] Thank you, Christie. Our first order of this today is public comment.
[43:50] through this portion of the meeting members of the public are invited to address the committee.
[43:54] He has sent speakers, please lend it to the remarks in two minutes.
[43:57] Is your A1 President who wishes to address the committee this time?
[44:01] All right. Thank you. Let's move on to Section 4 of our agenda.
[44:04] First of the chair's items, we have for consideration the minutes of the Finance and Audit Committee meeting held on July 16,
[44:10] 2026, and I have a motion to approve the minutes as presented.
[44:14] Second, it's been moved in second. Are there any questions or requests to amend these minutes?
[44:18] If you're not all those in favor of signify by saying aye, aye, all opposed, the motion passes, the minutes are approved.
[44:25] I have no additional items at this time, so I'll turn it over to our executive director, Cassandra.
[44:30] Thank you very much, Chairman.
[44:31] I'm this morning, I have no additional items under the additional items, but I do have a report under my executive director report.
[44:41] And this morning our chief financial officer, Kathy Williams, has a 2026 second quarter financial
[44:48] report to share, which highlights the continued stability and progress across our operations
[44:54] and capital initiatives.
[44:56] As you will hear, the Illinois subway can include the second quarter.
[45:00] Order, and the first half of 2026, and a stable financial position. Higher than budget year-to-date revenues, along with favorable operating results, and lower than budgeted debt service allocations.
[45:14] While higher capital expenditures reflect at the pace of major construction activities. So at this time, I'd like to ask Kathy Williams to present the second quarter year-to-date financials.
[45:25] Thank you. Thank you. Good morning, Chair. Good morning, directors.
[45:29] Good morning.
[45:30] I will be presenting the preliminary and unordered results.
[45:35] For the 2026 second quarter compared to budget.
[45:41] And it's perfect.
[45:45] And it's still connected.
[46:00] Kathy, how's your summer going?
[46:03] She has had it going well.
[46:13] What's a day without a little technology since there?
[46:23] What's a day without a little technology since there?
[46:24] The entire team is on the
[46:52] floor.
[46:54] So
[46:57] let's go to the financial summary.
[47:02] So this slide represents a financial summary of the year-to-date second quarter results.
[47:08] So, as you can see, revenue was budgeted at 860,660,000,000 through June 30,000 for today.
[47:17] Actual results taken in 879.3 million.
[47:21] They change or increase about budget of 12.6 million or 1.5%.
[47:26] This reflects mostly higher investment income that occurred during the first and second quarters.
[47:32] It's not one to that, and we're going to now make this an operation expenditures, came in below budget by $9.7 million, mostly due to contractual services, but parking offset by higher group insurance costs.
[47:47] That service transfers are $2.77.1 million and $2.8 million below budget.
[47:53] And this is also due to the later timing of our debt issues, as well as accumulated investment earnings
[47:59] that has resulted in invested and expected debt transfers.
[48:06] And lastly, capital expenditures are 49.
[48:09] Excuse me, we're 49 million or 11.7% higher above budget due to better
[48:22] So let's talk about revenue, through June 30.
[48:28] So here to date, so toll revenue, as I mentioned, is 12.6 million more than budget.
[48:33] And again, as you can see, most of it comes from investment income.
[48:38] This is driven by just higher projected balances that we carry.
[48:42] And off the cost of our relatively stable short term investments,
[48:45] rate that this occurred during the quarter.
[48:49] Tol revenue is slightly above budget 1.2 million, and that's mostly due to the
[48:53] better than expected evasion recovery results that occurred in the second quarter, and
[48:58] lastly, commit concessions and miscellaneous, this slightly above budget due to fiber optic
[49:07] at least as any that we encourage during the second one.
[50:17] This is the first.
[50:32] So, as you can see, the slide shows sit, roll, and toll revenue. Year-to-day toll revenue is
[50:41] 755 million. And it coherent to 2025. This is an increase of 30 million or 422 percent that comes mostly from
[50:53] commercial vehicle revenue, which is 490.4 million and remains of revenue was about 4.9% of
[51:04] of 2025 levels.
[51:06] For passenger car vehicles, the passenger car vehicles revenue is about 11.5 million higher
[51:12] than our 2025 level of 3.4% total passenger vehicle revenue came in at 320.5.
[51:20] So, again, we're still showing you continued city growth, compared to budget revenue is slightly below budget and that's mostly because of weather impacts in both passenger vehicle and commercial vehicles in the first quarter and second June and second quarter.
[51:40] So, can you go back to transactions?
[51:43] I just want to point out the transactions.
[51:46] So transactions actually came in about budget by 0.4% and then compared to 2025 transactions
[51:55] increased by 12.5 million or two and a half percent.
[51:59] Again, that's driven by passenger car vehicles, passenger car vehicles, it was 12.2 million,
[52:04] a 2.8% higher than 20.25, much of vehicles are about 1.3 million or 0.5% higher than
[52:13] 20.5.
[52:14] But again, we are still showing continuous steady growth in our revenue.
[52:20] And once again, how does that revenue get allocated with maintenance and operations?
[52:26] Here we show a budget of 204 million maintenance and operation costs.
[52:31] We're coming in slightly without a moment of 2015-9.7 million below, and this is mostly
[52:41] due to the timing of filling of open positions.
[52:44] Some of the positions that we budgeted this year will probably get filled next year in
[52:50] line with some of the projects we expected to implement in our team.
[52:54] Contractual services was also about 7 million below budget, and that mostly consists of operations
[53:01] efficiencies in our operations. We had more than expected call volumes. We also had, we see
[53:09] some of our customer service in a customer service that some of the efficiencies that we gain
[53:16] is because of increased IVR and so service usage which cuts our call times. So that helps with
[53:25] again an efficiencies in our operations. We also got a credit from our bank, well bank service
[53:30] against our bank charges and helping us put in the contractual services of CO2.2 million
[53:36] and then there are some lower spending and ISP expenses, which we expect to do
[53:42] probably increase for the whole year. Group insurance costs. We hear monitoring that
[53:50] group insurance is exceeding 551.5 million in the first order and this is due to higher than expected
[53:56] coins cost it occurred in the first folder. The second quarter actually the insurance
[54:02] costs were pretty much flat. So we are very grateful. And again, we had a higher than
[54:08] expected to claim cost in the first quarter.
[54:16] Going to our capital program,
[54:20] it's always budget
[54:21] before reimbursement. It's 418 million total of the annoying infringing adapter. Actual results
[54:30] came in at 475.1 million, and increased of 57.1 million above budget at 13.7 percent.
[54:38] And this is mostly due to significant progress that was made on the main light hallway
[54:44] in the tricycate, as well as bridge reconstruction. Also, there's been a lot of continued
[54:49] grab bridge and image change work in I-29 and I-88 that was not anticipated what we
[54:59] Um, six.
[55:01] In addition, this been more than I got just made on the eligible hearing than they just paid it. This is for the U.P. roll track relocation and better than they just paid it results on pipeline relocation.
[55:15] And lastly, in emerging projects, it's slightly below budget. And here, this just reflects time to design activity.
[55:22] on the
[55:33] total plan that lower the objectives of expenditures on the total plan as a
[55:37] however, work has continued on the fiber optic network expansion along the
[55:42] better this whole way and total plans that include a work has progressed on various
[55:46] objectives.
[55:49] Any questions on your time?
[55:51] You're going to take these out.
[55:56] Just one quick, we're going to do a period that we're having any issues but why is on the
[55:59] cost of fuel today versus a year ago.
[56:03] Now we are still in line with where we are budgeting.
[56:07] The other questions?
[56:11] Thank you, Kathy.
[56:13] The subject, do you have any additional items at this time?
[56:16] I have no additional items, Tammy.
[56:18] All right.
[56:18] So as we have no items for consideration this month, let's move on to unfinished business.
[56:22] We have any unfinished business that committee wishes to discuss.
[56:26] Is there any new business?
[56:28] There is no further business before the committee may add a motion adjourn.
[56:30] Thank you.
[56:37] The motion passes.
[56:39] We are adjourned.
[56:40] Thank you.
[56:41] The motion passes.
[56:42] We are adjourned.
[56:43] Thank you.
[56:45] The morning welcome to engineering planning and development.
[56:49] over-site community meeting August 19th, 2026.
[56:55] Chris, do you please call me, please?
[56:59] Dr. Gomez, I'll excuse you, Dr. Cadick.
[57:02] Chair, Dr. Seenie?
[57:04] Dr. Wright?
[57:05] Dr. Connelly?
[57:06] Here.
[57:07] Chairman, may I have one?
[57:08] Thank you.
[57:09] Christine, the first quoted witness.
[57:10] Today is public comment.
[57:12] At the end of this portion of the meeting, members of the public are invited
[57:15] to address the committee.
[57:16] We ask that the speakers please limit their March to two minutes.
[57:21] Is there any one present who wishes to address the committee at this time?
[57:28] Thank you.
[57:31] Let's move this section for our agenda.
[57:37] First under the chair's item, we have about four consideration minutes of the engineering
[57:42] planning development oversight committee meeting held on July 16, 2021.
[57:47] six may have a motion to approve the minutes, so a second motion is made in second.
[57:58] Are there
[57:58] any questions or requests to amend the minutes? Hearing none, all those are favorcing the
[58:04] five to say aye. May motion passes. I have no additional items at this time during the floor
[58:11] over the executive director for some. Thank you so much, Chair Connelly. I have no additional
[58:16] to report today. So we move on to items for consideration. Under
[58:20] engineering, we have three items this month. And our Chief
[58:23] Engineering Officer, Bernard Nash, will present these items for the
[58:26] committee's consideration. For not? Morning directors. Before
[58:30] presenting this month's items, I'd like to provide a brief update
[58:33] on progress that we are making. 2026 remains on track to be one of
[58:38] the largest to date. A significant progress is being made as the
[58:42] advances the move Illinois and bridging the future capital programs, demonstrating our continued
[58:47] commitment to delivering for our customers. On the central tri-state project, Reconstruction
[58:53] Work has continued between Agdhan Avenue and Cermack Road, with additional lanes expected to be
[58:58] opened by the end of the year, as well as at the I-2-90-88 interchange, where work on Reconstruction
[59:05] has continued for complex images crossing I-2-90 and I-88. Tier 1 Closet Work,
[59:11] at several locations is expected to be substantially completed this year and on the i490
[59:17] course or interchange and mainline work continues along with relocation of jet fuel pipeline
[59:22] serving over here which Kathy mentioned and that sets the stage for additional mainline construction
[59:28] significant mainline construction ahead next year and then finally as we continue to push
[59:34] to complete this year's work there are preparations underway for significant work that's planned
[59:40] for next year, so I think we'll take care of your next year.
[59:45] First, I'd like to invite him one
[59:47] as a construction contract to work
[59:48] for sign panel fabrication and installation system wide.
[59:52] This is a standard and essential contract for signing work
[59:56] to ensure that the signs on the totally system are well-meant.
[1:00:01] The work includes fabrication and installation of science, pick up an installation of science fabricated by the tollway, removal of science and science supports maintenance of traffic and other miscellaneous work.
[1:00:13] The current contract for this work will end this year. This contract will provide a continued source for the work. The low bid was below estimate.
[1:00:21] You see, two bids award is recommended to road-safe traffic systems incorporated as the little bit or at 2,969,487 dollars and 27 cents, and they have committed to meet the DBE and veteran goals on this contract.
[1:00:39] There's one new professional engineering service contract award being presented for consideration this month.
[1:00:44] I have two as a professional engineering service contract for construction,
[1:00:49] for door management and construction management services for the
[1:00:52] Elginal Hair Wester and Access project, and this is the last
[1:00:56] contract for these services for this project.
[1:01:00] And as highlighted in the past, the ongoing Elginal Hair
[1:01:03] Wester and Access project is a project of national and regional
[1:01:06] significance and plays in essential role in transforming mobility,
[1:01:10] kind of activity and accessibility in Northeast Illinois and is noted in this month's
[1:01:15] Quarterly Financial Report, progress in the second quarter of seated expectations.
[1:01:20] We're working aggressively to build on that momentum.
[1:01:23] What was 2026 strong in preparation for 2027, where work will be occurring along the entire length of the
[1:01:30] I-490 corridor. This contract has two primary components. First, construction corridor management
[1:01:37] services to support the totally with oversight and management of all remaining contracts for
[1:01:43] completion of construction and close out the I-490 corridor. And this also includes supporting
[1:01:50] all required public and agency communication and coordination. That includes coordination with
[1:01:56] I-DAT, Chicago Department of Aviation, Federal Aviation Administration, three different railroads
[1:02:01] in Cook and DuPage County, so just a few.
[1:02:05] And second component, construction management services
[1:02:09] for inspection oversight and providing
[1:02:12] documentation for continued construction
[1:02:15] within the Canadian Pacific's Venshinville Intermodal Yard
[1:02:18] and this includes construction of the new I-490
[1:02:21] overpass over the Canadian Pacific Venshinville Yard.
[1:02:26] This new contract ensures continuity
[1:02:28] for essential services, supporting delivery
[1:02:30] of remaining I-494 door construction work, and that construction includes completion of remaining
[1:02:36] segments bordering the west and southern sides of O'Hare, new access and outgrow village,
[1:02:42] and additional work to advance western access into O'Hare. A ward of this contract is recommended
[1:02:48] to V3 companies in the amount of $21,100,000,000. They committed to exceed the DBE goal and meet
[1:02:57] veteran goal for the contracts and they also have a partnering for growth agreement with
[1:03:01] HKM engineers LLC.
[1:03:06] The third item is a supplement and amount not to see $250,000 for additional
[1:03:11] construction management services under contract RR244943 with pinpoint precision LLC and they
[1:03:19] are providing the construction management services for the York Road Ridge Reconstruction
[1:03:24] over ideates in Oakbrook. The construction schedule for the contract they're overseeing has been
[1:03:31] extended. Additional time was needed to relocate a conflicting electrical line. Good news is
[1:03:37] construction on the bridge is completed. So this supplement just provides an extension of services
[1:03:42] required for the close-out of the contract. And then also we have a totally has an intergovernmental
[1:03:47] agreement with the village of Oakbrook and the village will participate in the the cost and the
[1:03:53] all project. So approval is recommended and the DB and Veteran Commitments are expected
[1:03:58] in that through completion of supplemental services.
[1:04:03] There are three questions in one hour.
[1:04:08] One, two, three times. Okay. Thank you very much. Without a judge, we need to take the engineering
[1:04:14] items as a group. I have a motion to consolidate what consideration and action engineering
[1:04:20] items once through three. So look, second, the motion is made in second. All those in
[1:04:27] favor, signify by say and aye. Motion pay items. Motion to consolidate these items
[1:04:34] have been carried. Now we have a motion to prove placement of engineering items once through
[1:04:39] three and the full board agenda. It's a little like it. All those in favor, signify by say and aye.
[1:04:50] May I say a motion pass, it's engineering 9, it's 1, 3, our approval for a placement
[1:04:55] on the August Board meeting agenda with the committee's recommendations.
[1:05:02] Thank you. Thank you. Yes. Under legal, we have four items this month. We are asking that items two, three, and four be deferred until after consideration in the executive session of the full board.
[1:05:12] Our general council would present legal item one for the committee's consideration. Kathleen. Good morning.
[1:05:18] One of the item one involves an IGA between the TOLA and the TOLA and the Transportation.
[1:05:25] I'd uplands to reach for the bridge carrying US-20 over the J. Adams Memorial TOLA at
[1:05:31] I-90 near Illinois TOLA Mile Post-19.8.
[1:05:36] The TOLA has maintenance for us oncibility for certain portions of the bridge and has requested
[1:05:41] that I'd have included certain of the TOLA's maintenance items in their project.
[1:05:46] I'd add a degree to do so subject to the Toeways Agreement to reimburse
[1:05:50] I'd out for the actual cost of that work.
[1:05:53] The estimated cost of the work I'd out will be performing on the Toeways
[1:05:56] behalf is $21,866,377.53.
[1:06:05] I have a question.
[1:06:08] All right, thank you, Kathy.
[1:06:09] Without objection, we will defer action.
[1:06:12] We can item 2, 2, 2, 4.
[1:06:16] All right, I have the executive session before the board.
[1:06:19] I have a motion to approve placement, legal item on the board.
[1:06:22] On the full board agenda.
[1:06:24] So, is there any questions?
[1:06:29] Are those in favor of signify by saying aye?
[1:06:31] As motion carries, we've laid on orders and proof for placement, and the others board meeting the agenda, and the committee's recommendation on business business.
[1:06:45] Any unfamiliar with business committee wishes to discuss new business, so any new business wishes to discuss.
[1:06:52] There's no further business before this committee may have a motion to adjourn.
[1:06:57] I'm going to move.
[1:07:00] It is motion is made in second.
[1:07:02] It was a favor signified the same.
[1:07:04] I face motion passes.
[1:07:07] We are adjourned.
[1:07:08] Thank you.
[1:07:10] All right.
[1:07:11] Good morning, everyone.
[1:07:12] And welcome to the August 19th, 2026,
[1:07:15] leading of the Illinois Toeway Board of Directors.
[1:07:17] Christie, will you please call the roll.
[1:07:19] Governor Prince.
[1:07:20] Secretary of the Aging.
[1:07:22] Dr. Connelly.
[1:07:24] Dr. Gomez.
[1:07:25] Dr. Bethel.
[1:07:26] Dr. Nettemire.
[1:07:27] Dr. Patel.
[1:07:28] here.
[1:07:29] Dr. Sweeney?
[1:07:30] Dr. Wright?
[1:07:31] Chairman Rivera?
[1:07:31] Here.
[1:07:32] Mr. Chairman, we have a call.
[1:07:33] Thank you, Christy.
[1:07:34] During the safety message last summer, a deputy chief of traffic and incident management
[1:07:38] Steve Mendes spoke to us about how important it is for drivers to stay in their cars.
[1:07:43] They're ever in a crash or just need to pull over.
[1:07:45] Because the single choice to stay inside a vehicle or to step in a traffic can mean the
[1:07:49] difference between going home and becoming a statistic.
[1:07:52] After hearing this message, we challenge our team to make this a priority to educate our
[1:07:56] about this final safety information.
[1:07:59] I'm pleased to share that communications in the roadway
[1:08:01] makes its teams accept that the challenge
[1:08:03] and spent the summer work for their
[1:08:04] communications department interns
[1:08:06] who developed a new safety campaign
[1:08:08] set tight choose right.
[1:08:10] That features a public service announcement,
[1:08:11] social media, and other public outreach.
[1:08:14] I'd like to invite Alandra and Abarro
[1:08:16] to say a few words and share the new PSA
[1:08:18] with us.
[1:08:19] Hi.
[1:08:20] Hi, good morning everyone.
[1:08:21] I'm Alandra and Abarro.
[1:08:23] And this summer I was tasked with fighting to develop this campaign.
[1:08:30] We found an opportunity to pre-attention society issue,
[1:08:35] because this campaign hasn't been done before,
[1:08:37] while connecting it to the story.
[1:08:39] We decided to focus on drivers exiting their vehicle and emergency,
[1:08:44] and wanted to encourage them to be proactive and always put their safety first.
[1:08:48] Look, PSA, which you'll get to see in a few minutes, really puts this message to life.
[1:08:53] We decided to put the list of scenarios which you'll get to see in this scenario.
[1:08:58] We put the new gas entirely.
[1:09:01] Any of that sort just to really connect to the user.
[1:09:06] And our overall goal throughout this was to really establish a frame of reference that individuals can utilize when we are in this situation.
[1:09:14] allowing them to always be able to make the crash decision and make them be able to sit tight and feel safe.
[1:09:22] Thank you.
[1:09:31] Seven roadside is the top line.
[1:09:33] We want you to think to remember that it's a good type.
[1:09:35] Stay calm and give me the decision of the best for your situation.
[1:09:38] Our health test drivers can assist with flat tires,
[1:09:41] and you can agree with me on the other side of the field.
[1:09:43] On the other side of the field.
[1:09:46] Stay in your home.
[1:10:01] Thank you, Alandra, and thank you to the communications and roadway team as well as all of our summer interns. That's really great work and great PSA.
[1:10:09] Next on the agenda is public comment. There are this portion of the meeting members of the public are invited to address the board.
[1:10:15] We ask that speaker's please limit the remarks in two minutes. This morning, we have a number of people who would like to address them. We ask that you come to the podium when your name is called.
[1:10:24] First up, we have Mr. Juan Galvin.
[1:10:44] morning. I was on that line. I'll make it brief. I would ask today to come and join and speak to you
[1:10:50] at your meeting about the programs that the Toeway offers. I work for a company called
[1:10:56] Anchor Inc. We build highways and bridges. We do the 29390, 294, and we have some
[1:11:05] on the new 490 and also we do patch emergency patch and port the Toeway. We also do local municipalities
[1:11:13] runway that'll hear and some of the other local airports but I'm here to talk to you about the
[1:11:20] totally program that they offered. I have taken advantage of the programs that the fully
[1:11:26] offered back in my 10 years ago and the last 10 years effort displayed in what they totally
[1:11:32] the contractor training program and also with their partner, Haseo. Most recently for the last
[1:11:40] that have been working for AFTERA, the PoloA has a program that trains individuals from throughout
[1:11:48] the Chicago and area through a program, I don't know exactly, but I think it's called
[1:11:54] that contract of works, but what they do is they take individuals from the local communities
[1:11:58] and make a pool of individuals through the PoloA program to be able to get gainful employment
[1:12:07] in the shell and area. So what actors does, we go on to pull away this, of those individuals,
[1:12:14] we pull their names, and then we call them up, and then we hire them and we put them
[1:12:22] through the local units, whether the labor, cement, mations, teamsters. So that's why I was
[1:12:30] asked to come and talk about that. So the program does work. I'm a beneficiary, and as
[1:12:37] and we hire a lot of employers off that list.
[1:12:40] So it does work.
[1:12:41] Thank you.
[1:12:42] Thank you.
[1:12:46] Next up, we have Michael Mendez-Soba.
[1:12:57] Good morning, Chairman and members of the Board.
[1:12:59] My name is Michael Mendez-Soba.
[1:13:01] I'm the founder of the Eleanor Tolway Technical Assistance Program at the Eleanor Hispanic
[1:13:05] Chamber of Commerce.
[1:13:06] On behalf of the Eleanor Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, I want to thank the Eleanor Tolway
[1:13:10] for its continued leadership and commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for small
[1:13:15] diverse disadvantaged and better-owned businesses.
[1:13:18] As a technical assistance provider,
[1:13:19] IHCC has first-hand seen the impact
[1:13:22] that this commitment has had on businesses throughout our region.
[1:13:26] The Illinois Public Technical Assistance Program,
[1:13:29] IITAP for short, has provided our clients with support
[1:13:33] and resources necessary to strengthen their operations,
[1:13:37] compete for contract opportunities,
[1:13:39] and establish a sustainable presence
[1:13:41] within the transportation and construction industry.
[1:13:43] These results demonstrate the value of that investment, over the life of the program, IHCC clients supported through RTA have been awarded over a hundred and fifty million dollars in contracts and have achieved over all
[1:14:01] $336,000, $226,000 in five cents in overall revenue growth.
[1:14:07] And once we've been very specific on that one,
[1:14:09] because to me, it just blew my mind to see the overall number.
[1:14:13] And in the process of all this, the program has created almost 2900 jobs.
[1:14:19] But behind those numbers are businesses who success demonstrates the impact of the TA program,
[1:14:25] and broader resources and opportunities that the subway has made available.
[1:14:28] For example, our client foundation mechanics is strong in that progression, in addition to being an active participant in the construction works program.
[1:14:38] Foundation mechanics began as a protege in one of our 9 previous GeForgy relationships through our TA program.
[1:14:45] Today the company has come full circle and services as a member in one of our 5 active GeForgy relationships.
[1:14:51] Their progression to motivate to mentor is a powerful example of the long-term impact of these programs create developing businesses.
[1:15:00] Is that are not only growing and succeeding, but are ultimately positioned to support the growth and success of other firms in the industry.
[1:15:07] Another strong example is veterans back.
[1:15:09] For the past four years, our technical assistance team has worked with the company as it prepared.
[1:15:14] It is as it is preparing to continue its growth through a greater contracting responsibility.
[1:15:18] Today, veterans back is being supported as a first-time prime contractor, and is currently engaged in a P4G relationship.
[1:15:25] These businesses demonstrate the value of sustained technical assistance helping firms move
[1:15:31] from pursuing opportunities to building the capacity experience necessary to take on
[1:15:36] growth within the larger roles in the industry. As a totally considered proposal for this
[1:15:41] capital plan driving connections, people leave their significant opportunity to build upon these
[1:15:46] results. Continue investments in program like the technical assistance program alongside
[1:15:51] I've always brought a commitment to small business participation,
[1:15:55] diversity, better known businesses,
[1:15:56] will help ensure that firms,
[1:15:58] our position not only to participate in these opportunities created by the capital
[1:16:02] pan, but to grow and remain competitive for years to come.
[1:16:07] The Illinois Toys deserves recognition for developing and sustaining programs
[1:16:11] to have produced measurable economic impact while
[1:16:14] explaining opportunity within the industry.
[1:16:17] I need to see as proud that we have accomplished
[1:16:19] So what we have accomplished with this partnership, and more importantly, what our clients
[1:16:23] have accomplished throughout this result, we look forward to continuing our partnership with
[1:16:28] the Illinois TOLA supporting businesses that will help deliver driving connections and contribute
[1:16:33] to the future of the Illinois Transportation Infrastructure. Thank you.
[1:16:37] Thank you.
[1:16:41] Next, we have Xavier Delaney.
[1:16:50] I want to remind of the members of the board, and so we leave a show.
[1:16:55] and does. My name is Zighin Delaney. I'm a operations manager for a great mouth construction
[1:17:01] group. And we're up to American owned construction company. And we've got the reason
[1:17:06] I'll cut up quarterly meeting. I did not know executive director, Cassandra Ross, with a
[1:17:12] analysis of the year 15 year 26 and a half billion dollar driver connections program.
[1:17:18] Like most people, I heard the 26 million, the 26 billion. But what's that? Stay with me,
[1:17:24] was the 15 years, and this thing will be a recent construction contract, the average amount
[1:17:32] of the average of a time is 15 months, on a substantial of the completion. One contract
[1:17:39] will create an opportunity, but the 15 year pipeline helps a small business become sustainable
[1:17:47] of saying workers and growth.
[1:17:51] At that meeting, two firms were highlighted as a sentence
[1:17:54] with assistance, the assessments, the assessments.
[1:17:57] I looked at that and thought, frame out was next.
[1:18:02] That belief is based on real progress,
[1:18:05] inner city underwriting, helped us secure more than two million
[1:18:09] and work, and established a surety bond line.
[1:18:14] That work has now been completed and it has built our capacity.
[1:18:20] There are two ways.
[1:18:21] That's the maintenance support.
[1:18:23] I also help dream out submit peds on two toe weight projects.
[1:18:28] Moving from training to actively competing, completing its real progress.
[1:18:35] When respectfully asked the board to approve the driving connections,
[1:18:39] So businesses like Green Mile can do more than just win one project.
[1:18:44] Give us the opportunity to sustain our companies, to employ people, perform quality work, grow alongside the total weight for the next 15 years.
[1:18:54] Thank you.
[1:18:58] Next up, we have Gabriella Suarez.
[1:19:19] Morning everyone. My name is Gabriella Suarez.
[1:19:22] I'm with Midwest Business Consulting.
[1:19:24] We are the service service disabled veteran owned small business,
[1:19:28] for the construction work's program with Illinois toll weight.
[1:19:32] What we focus on is helping those individuals that are interested in having high
[1:19:36] with constructive careers.
[1:19:38] Oftentimes those careers are being able to through the union construction
[1:19:43] of apprenticeships.
[1:19:44] So what we do is that we focus with helping them get there.
[1:19:47] We do that through unions tax property.
[1:19:50] We do that through union engagement and case management.
[1:19:55] I just wanted to share some of the information from somebody
[1:19:58] and it's that we have helped out.
[1:20:03] So, from March 24, we currently have 74 candidates enrolled in the NBC, 44 are currently new members. I have
[1:20:14] I've been from an operators, teachers,
[1:20:16] keynote processing leaders, some methods.
[1:20:18] I work as bricklayers,
[1:20:20] electricians, both locally-wanted four and local nine.
[1:20:24] And I actually invited someone here today.
[1:20:30] I do not have much experience with public speaking.
[1:20:33] So, I'm going to go to the right, and do a little bit of a good thing.
[1:20:35] And so, I kind of invited someone here
[1:20:36] to have her names and she's Marks.
[1:20:38] She's a wonderful example of what this program is able to accomplish.
[1:20:44] So, she joined back in 2024 from sort of one of the events
[1:20:46] that the soy put together.
[1:20:48] And at the end of 2022, she tested in the top 20%
[1:20:52] for the teamsters 142, but was not
[1:20:54] to let this for the pressure.
[1:20:56] However, that's not stopped for trees.
[1:20:58] She continued to pursue her career in the trace.
[1:21:01] After being placed in the wait list,
[1:21:03] she gained her CDL class B license.
[1:21:05] She earned her transportation work
[1:21:07] or identification credential card
[1:21:09] as she completed her OSHA 30 certification.
[1:21:12] I am so happy to announce that in May, 2026,
[1:21:15] But shrew smarts was disrupted into Teamster's doing council.
[1:21:20] Number 25 training and she's here today, also to
[1:21:23] show more about her dirty
[1:21:32] piercey.
[1:21:34] Okay, let's go out of order and I'm more tree.
[1:21:36] I'll put it up.
[1:21:38] Go up, back, back.
[1:21:38] Trees marks.
[1:21:47] Good morning, everyone.
[1:21:48] I'm nervous.
[1:21:52] I originally, I originally pick the Mac only nice face.
[1:21:57] also served as some of you as a service and industrialization of these things.
[1:22:01] I decided to go to my community college where I picked up a flight of a construction work program.
[1:22:05] I attended an event at a West Side of Chicago.
[1:22:09] We have a side that would I gave them.
[1:22:10] They gave them an information and I signed up from there to have them.
[1:22:13] They're just to put it in my computer.
[1:22:15] As she mentioned, they gave me says preparation,
[1:22:19] a rest of what this hot 20%.
[1:22:21] Ocean 30, Ocean 10, Ocean 30, First 8.
[1:22:25] And I have now, in a print set, changed this local 25.
[1:22:30] There I am, upgraded my video license.
[1:22:33] I plan on being a presenter operator.
[1:22:35] It helps you work, but the other one is so late.
[1:22:37] Thank you.
[1:22:38] Thank you.
[1:22:39] Thank you.
[1:22:43] Next up, we have Steve Trivia.
[1:23:01] Good morning.
[1:23:02] My name is Steve Trivia.
[1:23:03] I'm the director of the DuPage County Division of Transportation.
[1:23:06] I may have chair Conroy.
[1:23:08] Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to speak to this morning.
[1:23:10] I'd like to begin, very briefly, it's morning by noting that the Illinois subway network
[1:23:14] is directly linked to health and growth and businesses and transportation accessibility
[1:23:18] to do page counting in our region.
[1:23:20] Illinois in the Greater Chicago Land Area is the Transportation Center of the United States,
[1:23:24] our transportation infrastructure is essential in supporting the local regional and national
[1:23:28] economy.
[1:23:29] It's always one of the center pieces of that system.
[1:23:32] Driving connections capital program will be essential in renewing and enhancing that system
[1:23:37] over the years to cost.
[1:23:38] at two-page county, we're excited to see the focus on critical facilities here in your page
[1:23:42] and the good jobs that will certainly be supported during an after-program.
[1:23:46] The county appreciates the excellent relationship we have with the hallway and accordingly,
[1:23:51] but like to coordinate with the driving connections program on how we could collaborate
[1:23:56] on transportation efforts across the county. Many of the county's transportation goals such as
[1:24:01] road user safety, access transportation options, reduced congestion and improved usage technology
[1:24:07] could seamlessly with program.
[1:24:09] Some examples of areas where we believe there could be further discussion with staff with the helpful
[1:24:13] include continuing our current dialogue, regarding our East Branch Bajra Retrial Project,
[1:24:19] the currently our engineering teams are coordinating for possible use, so basically 350
[1:24:23] private right away. This proposed segment of the trail of parallel 350 five for over three miles.
[1:24:29] As work along 350 five is developed, we believe there may be additional opportunities to work together
[1:24:34] I'd like to discuss interchanged options, although we recognize this may be, as it's potential challenges, but interchanged options in the corporate vicinity along Act 294.
[1:24:46] Also, we have significant operational concerns here I-88 and Highland Avenue, and perhaps additional work in that area, including potentially a Westbound exit off of the interstate 88 with help with those.
[1:25:00] Issues we have up top on Highland and its proximity to Butterfield. We wish to maintain a dialogue
[1:25:06] concerning design considerations to propose the extension of Bill and I390, the new interchange
[1:25:11] with County Farm Road and over part. We have our own safety, drainage and access concerns
[1:25:16] in this area, and wish to maintain that open workforce box. Regarding the I390 discussion of
[1:25:24] potential transit accommodations along 390 into the 490 of Western access to O'Hare seems to be a good fit.
[1:25:31] We know that eye dot has worked with patients, successful implementation of bus on shoulders.
[1:25:35] The whole way has had successful implementation of buses along 990.
[1:25:39] Perhaps that is an avenue that could be pursued along the Illinois 390, allowing more multimodal access into the west side of O'Hare.
[1:25:48] And then finally, that's the county we have been promoting.
[1:25:50] and encouraging safe non-motorized travel.
[1:25:54] And so, be remiss if I didn't suggest that we could work together in areas such as
[1:25:59] Interstate 88 in the old mill street near Naperville, or 88 in 355 in Family Road,
[1:26:05] or Army cell road under 355 in enhanced pedestrian accommodation across those interchangeers.
[1:26:11] We'll see if that's not a short list.
[1:26:15] We hope that some of these items resonate with your program and look forward to our continuous
[1:26:19] in our governmental cooperation. Thank you for your time.
[1:26:22] Thank you.
[1:26:26] Next up we have Matthew Cooper.
[1:26:38] I'd like to say, I'm nervous as well.
[1:26:43] Good morning, Tim.
[1:26:44] Good morning, Tim. We're there.
[1:26:46] Board of directors, Executive Rouse.
[1:26:49] Thank you, Director Rouse.
[1:26:50] To a leadership.
[1:26:53] To a partners.
[1:26:55] And yes.
[1:26:55] My name is Matthew Cooper.
[1:26:57] I am the,
[1:26:59] I have the privilege of being the
[1:27:01] team leader for the toll rate technical assistance program in the
[1:27:06] industry by and of city underwriting. Over the past four years,
[1:27:10] industry has led a team from the prize primarily of African American
[1:27:14] health consulting firms delivered hands-on training, one-on-one coaching,
[1:27:20] bonding assistance, access to capital guidance, back off the support.
[1:27:26] And we've done this to more than 360 contractors, we're seeking to
[1:27:30] people to weigh and non-to-weight transportation related work.
[1:27:36] The only toilet technical assistance program is designed to prepare,
[1:27:39] inverting, and establish construction and professional engineering firms,
[1:27:45] including small, diverse, independent-owned businesses.
[1:27:48] It's a space successfully in contracts on the highway and vertical
[1:27:56] I work as rooted in that mission, helping firms strengthen their operation, understand project
[1:28:04] requirements, fields, financial capacity, and move from opportunity to actual performance.
[1:28:12] One of the most important points I want to make today is that the program has produced meaning
[1:28:16] for results while remaining broadly accessible and racing.
[1:28:21] We're proud that more African-American contract is a pity on subway projects that never
[1:28:26] before.
[1:28:27] But the program is served contractors across many backgrounds.
[1:28:31] Currently, we serve 245 African-American farms, 50 Israeli farms, 29 Caucasian, 21 Asian
[1:28:39] with the rest being from other nationalities and ethnic groups.
[1:28:43] The numbers reflect more than participation.
[1:28:45] They reflect a growing pipeline of business with the skills, confidence, and capacity to compete in a demanding transportation construction market.
[1:28:58] In fact, this work can be measured in concrete results.
[1:29:02] During the past four years, current participating in the program have reported more than $200 million in revenue growth.
[1:29:09] more than $15 million in access to capital.
[1:29:13] And most importantly, $120 million in shorty bond capacity.
[1:29:18] For Farms, many Farms would have never had a bond before,
[1:29:22] or have never been able to increase their bond into this situation.
[1:29:26] Abonding blinds.
[1:29:28] Behind every one of those numbers is a contractor
[1:29:31] who has become prepared to estimate a job,
[1:29:35] manage risk, secure bonding, strengthen their back office systems, and obtain the capital
[1:29:41] needed to perform and step forward with confidence as a better sub-contractor, the most
[1:29:47] important part of that. It does more than invite in, you know, the program does more than
[1:29:56] by small business to table. It helps them understand.
[1:30:00] It helps them prepare for the work. It helps them meet the standards required on major public projects and infrastructure projects.
[1:30:09] It helps them build the internal capacity to succeed long after a training class for a consulting session.
[1:30:16] We have seen firms repeat complete estimating training and immediately improve quality of their bits.
[1:30:27] We have seen contract as moved from uncertainty to readiness,
[1:30:32] from missed opportunities to competitive proposals,
[1:30:36] and from isolated projects to sustain growth.
[1:30:40] As a tool we consider as the proposed driving connections capital program, the work becomes even more important.
[1:30:45] Driving connections is a 15-year, 26.5 billion dollar commitment to improved traffic, road conditions, reliability, and economic development across every quarter of the total system.
[1:30:57] A program of that size and duration will create extraordinary opportunities, but only if small diverse federal and emerging firms are prepared to feed for that work.
[1:31:10] Technical assistance is a bridge between investment and inclusion.
[1:31:14] It turns capital programs into business growth.
[1:31:16] It turns public infrastructure spending into local jobs.
[1:31:20] It turns policy goals into measurable outcomes.
[1:31:23] As over and over the past four years,
[1:31:26] the total technical assistance is shown
[1:31:28] that what firms we see in firms we see,
[1:31:30] practical, customized support.
[1:31:33] They respond to the growth, performance and suspension.
[1:31:36] So on behalf of the industry and the contract as we serve,
[1:31:39] I want to thank the Board. It's only leadership for investing in the program that is producing real results.
[1:31:47] And I'm here to confirm our strong support for the driving connections capital.
[1:31:53] Thank you.
[1:31:54] Thank you.
[1:31:57] Next up, we have Hannah Sosa.
[1:32:04] Good morning, everyone.
[1:32:05] Good morning.
[1:32:06] And we'd like to encourage our speakers to speak up,
[1:32:10] where I understand we're having some trouble hearing at the other side of the room.
[1:32:14] Yes, we have thank you.
[1:32:15] So I provided some packets because I understand it's probably going to be difficult for me to relate the impact of the technical assistance program has had on our business in two minutes.
[1:32:25] So I did prepare for a 10 person board. So I apologize. I don't have packets for a woman, but please feel free to grab our contact information and the information that I'm going to relate here in a minute.
[1:32:35] My name is Hannah Sosta. My husband, I'm, I need a short, sorry.
[1:32:43] My husband and I own and operate Grindwell LLC, we're an electric minority disadvantaged service
[1:32:51] connected disabled veteran firm, the operates in the Chicago Lent area.
[1:32:56] We opened our doors in 2022 with one employee and quickly got to work with the technical
[1:33:02] assistance program with a mission of becoming an asset to the state of Illinois.
[1:33:07] Our first year in business we really focused with the technical assistance program on getting all
[1:33:13] those certifications that I just cited to you guys that are on the end of our title of our
[1:33:18] business. That took a long time and if they gave us the ground work to enter into the contractual
[1:33:25] obligations that we wanted to meet under the cost of the Illinois told me. Second year of business
[1:33:31] In 2024, we've really got to work on relationship building, meeting those contractors, general contractors that are already working under the full way.
[1:33:41] Always systems that have built that reputation that we're looking for reliable stuff contractors to help build us up in a small business arena.
[1:33:50] 2025, we really focused on crew expansion under the technical assistance program.
[1:33:57] Again, nourishing those general contractor relationships, setting us up to transition into a prime contractor moving forward.
[1:34:07] Critical success factors that we work through while working with the technical assistance program with education education education.
[1:34:15] as a small business new person to the Illinois, the State of Illinois, contractor, construction
[1:34:22] around. It's very hard to get behind the walls unless you have someone driving the bus for you.
[1:34:28] So technical assistance served as that bus driver for us. The educating us on how to do
[1:34:33] business, how to be taken seriously, how to set up our back office to facilitate successful
[1:34:39] completion of projects. Next, we rolled into looking at the bigger picture, making sure we
[1:34:45] have the proper partnerships to be successful. Specifically in our arena, we're a medium to
[1:34:51] high voltage electrical contractor. We specialize in overhead and underground power lines to include
[1:34:59] infrastructure work.
[1:35:00] Which is also known as street lighting. And so, in insurance or any realm of when you're issuing a contract, we're considered a catastrophic risk category. If something goes wrong under that realm of work, it can be catastrophic.
[1:35:17] So we had to make sure we have the appropriate insurance companies backing us that we have appropriate safety parameters and training for our field folks. Again, so we can become an asset and provide quality or shared work through our contract.
[1:35:30] And then, secondly, again, just nourishing this business development, nourishing us through business development.
[1:35:37] Key steps in our execution of our strategic build in Grindel.
[1:35:41] Again, in 2023, we started with one employee.
[1:35:44] We're wrapping 2026 with 60 employees.
[1:35:48] We've increased our annual revenue four times since 2020 to three under the technical assistance program.
[1:35:55] So I can't be more thankful again.
[1:35:56] I know I only had two minutes to share.
[1:35:58] I wanted to get those key points out.
[1:36:00] Please feel free to grab a pamphlet.
[1:36:01] That has a little more information in it.
[1:36:04] And I want to thank everyone here today
[1:36:06] for allowing me the time specifically
[1:36:07] the Illinois Toolway Technical Assistance Program.
[1:36:10] HACO has been a tremendous partner of ours
[1:36:13] as well as IHCC and our growth
[1:36:15] for the last four years.
[1:36:16] So thank you, everyone.
[1:36:22] Next up, we have an Emily Crane.
[1:36:24] That's a good one.
[1:36:41] Hi, good morning.
[1:36:42] We're evening.
[1:36:43] I'm Emily Crane.
[1:36:44] I am a resident of Berlin, Illinois,
[1:36:46] and also enthusiastic to lay customer.
[1:36:50] I'm a long time Illinois resident and for the past 10 years have had the privilege of helping to raise
[1:36:54] two wonderful sexual dream to live in Woodstock.
[1:36:57] Over the 10 years, the J&M's to lay has been part of countless trips that matter most
[1:37:01] to our family.
[1:37:02] Before dawn departures for travel best of all, we can acquire concerts after work, home photos,
[1:37:07] graduations, and all the milestone moments that come with raising two busy kids.
[1:37:12] There are many no-cost routes I could take to get to Woodstock, but time again I
[1:37:16] I chose the Illinois Toolway because I know it will help you get there safely, reliably and on time.
[1:37:21] And for me that piece of mind is worth every penny.
[1:37:24] Today I'm here to express my strong support for the Illinois Toolway's driving connections capital programs,
[1:37:29] including the investment to rehabilitate grow ways,
[1:37:32] improve infrastructure and reduce congestion.
[1:37:35] As our communities continue to grow, these investments will help ensure that families like mine
[1:37:39] can continue to reach life's most important moments safely and efficiently.
[1:37:43] I also support the Tolligessments needed to fund this program, without continued investment,
[1:37:48] our roads will continue to age, congestion will increase and safety will suffer.
[1:37:52] The two busy kids I mentioned are now becoming busy young adults, their senior and high
[1:37:57] school and engineering college, and new drivers as well.
[1:38:01] This investment will help ensure that they have safe reliable roads as they travel to and from
[1:38:06] college, begin their careers, and someday perhaps travel those same roads with families of their
[1:38:11] own.
[1:38:12] The Illinois Toilet is more than payment and bridges, it connects us to the people and moments that enter the most.
[1:38:18] I'm going to thank the Illinois Toilet for making those connections possible.
[1:38:21] Thank you all for the opportunity to speak today.
[1:38:28] Next up, we have Kiera Rogers.
[1:38:38] Good morning. There's a writing on English Kiera Rogers.
[1:38:41] And I am the communications director for the Custom Policy Chamber of Commerce.
[1:38:46] I'm happy to be here today representing the Chamber and the business community that we say.
[1:38:51] The Chamber is proud to say that's a member of the Illinois Solace, the recipient,
[1:38:56] by Zrew Community.
[1:38:57] And that role the Chamber has had the opportunity to see firsthand out bringing together
[1:39:02] businesses, communities, and public sector partners that can create greater access
[1:39:08] and opportunity.
[1:39:09] Today, I am here on behalf of the Council of Public and Chamber to express our support
[1:39:13] for the proposed driving financials program.
[1:39:16] For us, transportation investment is more about more than roles and bridges, it's also about economic opportunity.
[1:39:26] Better transportation connects people to jobs, business is to customers, suppliers to new opportunities and communities to get to you grow.
[1:39:34] especially encouraged by that's always committed to making sure small, diverse,
[1:39:39] veteran, and emerging businesses that opportunity to participate.
[1:39:44] Programs like the Technical Assistance Program,
[1:39:47] help businesses straight to areas such as estimating, bonding,
[1:39:51] access to capital, and overall business running and so that they can better compete
[1:39:56] for transportation and related opportunities.
[1:39:58] That work matters.
[1:40:00] To the chamber, because our mission is not only to connect businesses with opportunities, but to help make sure that they are prepared to take a hint.
[1:40:08] With the proposed 15 year 26.5 billion dollar driving connections program, you see the potential for new jobs, contracts, voice development,
[1:40:19] We struggle businesses and continue investment in communities throughout our region.
[1:40:25] The cosmopolitan Chamber of Commerce is proud to support driving connections and we encourage
[1:40:31] the continued focus on diversity, inclusion, technical assistance and meaningful opportunities
[1:40:36] for businesses of all sizes.
[1:40:39] We look forward to continuing our partnership with Illinois Sew Lake and help we connect businesses
[1:40:44] community to set up with the opportunities they have. Thank you so much for being here.
[1:40:54] Next up we have more women.
[1:41:14] Good morning, Chairman Rivera, members of the board,
[1:41:17] and Executive Director of Rouse. My name is Laura Newman. I'm the City Administrator for the
[1:41:22] City of Portavia. And I'm here today on behalf of Mayor Shilky. It was really important that
[1:41:27] Mayor Shilky asked for me to be here. He wanted to express the importance of the toll waste system
[1:41:33] communities like the city of Batavia. When we talk about this whole way, I think it's primarily
[1:41:39] in terms of pavement bridges, interchanges, and miles of roadway, but from the perspective
[1:41:45] of a community like Batavia, it's really about people. Mayor Shilky says that one of Batavia's
[1:41:52] greatest advantages is that we can enjoy the character of a Fox River Valley community while still
[1:41:58] connecting with everything that the Chicago region has to offer. For many of our residents,
[1:42:05] IEDA is simply a part of their everyday lives. It's how they get to work. It's how they get to
[1:42:11] appear downtown Chicago. It's how they get to a medical appointment or to see family or go to a
[1:42:16] concert or a quality. Or just get home at the end of a long day. And increasingly, people don't
[1:42:23] necessarily work and live in the same community.
[1:42:28] Our residents may work in Elfbrook, the Downers Grove, Chicago, or elsewhere in the region.
[1:42:33] And at the same time, people are traveling from all of those communities throughout North
[1:42:37] Eastern Illinois to work in the Tadega.
[1:42:40] That means the reliability of IEDA has a very direct effect on people's daily lives.
[1:42:47] If you can make a trip more predictable, or even just say 10 to 15 minutes of someone's commute time back matters over the course of a week, over the course of a year, this is a significant amount of time that people get to sign with their families instead of driving.
[1:43:06] The same is true from an economic development standpoint.
[1:43:09] When we talk with businesses who are looking to locate in our community in Batagia, transportation
[1:43:16] access matters, it's why we've been able to attract two national headquarters, both
[1:43:22] all the and some cast, two our community. Employers need their employees to be able to reach them
[1:43:29] and customers and visitors need to be able to reach our community and manufacturers and other businesses
[1:43:35] is being reliable movement of goods.
[1:43:39] So when I look at the investments that are being contemplated
[1:43:43] in the driving connections, capital plan,
[1:43:46] improvements to the IAA can be IAA-355 interchange,
[1:43:52] modernization of the corridor and technology improvement,
[1:43:56] I don't see those simply as tall-weight projects.
[1:43:59] I see them as investments in the communities
[1:44:01] that depend upon that corridor every single day.
[1:44:06] And I think there's another point that's important from the perspective of local government.
[1:44:11] Residents really don't distinguish much between who is responsible for a part of the roadway.
[1:44:18] They don't say that's a total waste responsibility or that's the city's responsibility.
[1:44:23] It's a system.
[1:44:24] And when that system works well, it expands people's choices.
[1:44:29] They can choose where they want to live, where they want to work,
[1:44:32] and where they want to do business, without transportation,
[1:44:36] becoming a limiting factor.
[1:44:38] And that's why these long-term investments matter.
[1:44:41] Patavia is so fortunate to have ideate essentially at our doorstep.
[1:44:46] It connects our community to the larger Chicago region,
[1:44:50] but it connects the region to us.
[1:44:53] maintaining and improving that connection will have very real and substantial benefits to our residents and businesses.
[1:45:00] For decades to come. So, on behalf of Mayor Shokie and the city of Portadia, thank you for continuing to look at beyond the infrastructure itself and considering the people and the communities like this infrastructure serves to thank you.
[1:45:15] Thank you.
[1:45:20] Next up, we have Pasquale, Gianni.
[1:45:34] Good morning, everybody.
[1:45:35] And we're here at the YouTube Day.
[1:45:37] My name is Pasquale, Johnni.
[1:45:39] I'm here today to express my strong support
[1:45:41] for the Toilet Ways News and Cyber Protection Capital Program.
[1:45:44] This new program includes a balance,
[1:45:47] a responsible mix of good repair projects,
[1:45:49] and a maintaining the same role
[1:45:50] and a series of new investments to help grow.
[1:45:53] This is some expand the benefits of this whole way.
[1:45:56] Outside of this current website.
[1:45:58] These investments are needed to continue to to always grow the massive job creator and
[1:46:03] drive out of regional economic and change.
[1:46:06] Not just through the construction work for also by giving communities a lot which
[1:46:10] will be accessing each grow, develop, and prospering.
[1:46:14] While it's never easy to ask people to pay more, I have been full support of the toy
[1:46:18] adjustments needed to come to this program over the next 15 years.
[1:46:22] Thank you to that one which will wait for playing ahead of making sure it's low
[1:46:25] ways can do this, or people don't want to, for generations to come.
[1:46:29] Thank you.
[1:46:30] Thank you.
[1:46:36] Next up, we have Tony Garretano.
[1:46:39] I'm also going to call Anthony Beckham, who I believe is in the overflow
[1:46:42] room, so I want to make sure it has enough time to make it up.
[1:46:46] So, Tony, in the Anthony.
[1:46:56] I was standing.
[1:46:57] It's a great morning everybody.
[1:46:58] Oh, it's almost lunch.
[1:47:00] Tony Garretano.
[1:47:02] Two thousand six, you know, open up a tiny little MB.
[1:47:05] And by 2017, it was time to close.
[1:47:09] But I ran into an opportunity with the tollway.
[1:47:13] In 2018, we were able to be part of a contract,
[1:47:16] which was pretty special, pretty unique.
[1:47:19] My first question was why is the tollway
[1:47:21] doing more force development?
[1:47:22] I found a really soon that critical skills shortens
[1:47:25] is a real thing.
[1:47:26] And it's been a workforce development.
[1:47:27] People need opportunity.
[1:47:28] People need jobs.
[1:47:30] People need somewhere to go every day
[1:47:31] and make money for the back of the family, right?
[1:47:33] And not only was it just a way
[1:47:35] to get skilled workforce.
[1:47:37] It was also a way to dispel the myths that this is that for us.
[1:47:41] A lot of my friends, a lot of my people, you know, the wasn't in the construction, wasn't
[1:47:45] in the car.
[1:47:45] It didn't know about it.
[1:47:47] This whole program was the opportunity to let people know this is for them, right?
[1:47:51] So fast-forward seven years, eight years actually, and everything from job fairs to church
[1:47:56] presentations, to hiring events, to being in high schools and the city and the suburbs,
[1:48:02] being with job cores in everything in between.
[1:48:05] We're able to get the message out, right?
[1:48:08] And fast forward a few contracts.
[1:48:09] Here we are in, you know, 2026.
[1:48:13] The third, I think, installment of this, you know,
[1:48:15] I'll stand in program.
[1:48:17] And this year, just to highlight some numbers,
[1:48:19] because numbers make a difference.
[1:48:20] That's what's our important.
[1:48:22] Our sales, actually technology,
[1:48:24] we have a dual customer approach, right?
[1:48:26] That won't do me care about helping out job seekers,
[1:48:28] getting people to career opportunities.
[1:48:30] We also want to make sure that these great contracts,
[1:48:32] There's some you'll hear about a patient and also everybody in between, right?
[1:48:37] Have the opportunity to grow their own business.
[1:48:39] Just like you guys getting to the opportunity back eight years ago, I like to be doing the same thing for all our different contractors and subcontractors and subcontractors.
[1:48:47] So it's been a world win, right?
[1:48:49] In the last two and a half years, 275 placements, we've helped out the system with over 30 additional placements, well over 300.
[1:48:56] they'll spread between at least 40 different contractors and subcontractors, 183 unionized
[1:49:04] positions, 58 were apprentices, which is great, the first year, second year, third year type
[1:49:09] people, and of course about 125, so everything has been great and we really appreciate the
[1:49:16] continued work. And the most important thing that I like to leave everybody with is it's important
[1:49:22] with this economic empowerment,
[1:49:24] then people have a place to work and a career to grow into.
[1:49:27] But it also became something to be very proud.
[1:49:30] The people who I work with, I help get jobs to,
[1:49:33] they work proudly, right?
[1:49:35] Construction works powered by the Illinois toll lane.
[1:49:38] People go to work, happy.
[1:49:39] They come home with some extra money in their pocket,
[1:49:41] able to provide for their families.
[1:49:42] Thank you, Marlin, thank you for your leadership.
[1:49:45] Thank you to the care of any for your courage.
[1:49:48] And thank you Donald Jolens for keeping the program alive.
[1:49:53] I'd like to introduce an outstanding partner of this program,
[1:49:56] who's been with us in one.
[1:49:58] And thank you back and we'll be back.
[1:50:00] Thank you, Tom.
[1:50:05] I told you the entire league was supposed to be so slow. So I came here with another dress. I feel a key role.
[1:50:14] Thank you for that, Tom. My name is Anthony Beck, a member of Vice President at FHPash.
[1:50:19] So I want to say good morning, first of all, to chairman executive director of all the board members here.
[1:50:25] I believe in the three bees and live be bold, be brief and be gone.
[1:50:29] So that's what I want to do because I know you've had a lot of speakers before me.
[1:50:32] But I do want to say, an MPH passion, we have seven active projects going on currently right now with Illinois told by as a general contractor.
[1:50:43] And so I want to say thank you to everyone at this table.
[1:50:47] And then I want to speak about the importance of the VA credit program.
[1:50:51] VA credit is very important in Illinois, highly competitive market.
[1:50:54] So, ensure that you maintain a competitive advantage in the industry that is earned from our participation in workforce diversity and local hiring.
[1:51:04] And then, also, I want to talk about how FHP is always looking to both serve as ranks with additional CW works for operators, carpenters, laborers, and C-mint make sense.
[1:51:13] And then, finally, I will say this, FHP has multiple workers that started the FHP through the CW program, and they are currently working across the land of all countless programs with us.
[1:51:24] Without folks like Tony calling me all the time, me and Tony have a direct relationship,
[1:51:29] that relationship I could not talk about more because it is needed specifically now with the shortage
[1:51:37] of jobs, the opportunities for folks. And then I do want to speak about all of the educational
[1:51:42] programs around the land, the Chicago land, the suburban area that is working, the CW program
[1:51:49] down from the wordscast. Let's continue to utilize that program and let's make sure that you're
[1:51:53] fun in it. Thank you so much. Thank you.
[1:52:00] Let's move on to section four of our agenda. First of the chair's items we have for consideration
[1:52:05] the minutes of the regular board of directors meeting held July 16th, 2026. May I have a motion
[1:52:10] to approve the minutes as presented? So we'll move in a second. Are there any questions or request
[1:52:16] to many's minutes.
[1:52:18] You're in none, all those in favor of seeing the five by saying aye.
[1:52:22] All opposed?
[1:52:23] Motion passes.
[1:52:24] The minutes are approved.
[1:52:26] Without objectionable with the for action on chair's items two until after the executive session.
[1:52:31] Next in the agenda are the committee reports.
[1:52:34] All directors represent for the committee meeting, so we can dispense with this report.
[1:52:38] As a point of order, following the executive director's toll weight update,
[1:52:41] and before our items for consideration, the board will consider the driving
[1:52:45] connected scaproprogram and proposed total increases.
[1:52:49] The Executive Director of Staff will present this item
[1:52:51] for the Board's consideration before it is called for a vote.
[1:52:54] I have no additional items at this time,
[1:52:56] so I'll turn the floor over to our Executive Director.
[1:52:59] Thank you, Ms. Chairman.
[1:53:00] Thank you, and good morning to the Chairman and to directors.
[1:53:04] I'd like to start this morning too.
[1:53:06] And I think, too, our summer interns
[1:53:08] follow the terrific safety message.
[1:53:10] And actually, you know, I'm extending a plot
[1:53:12] to the intern that presented this morning.
[1:53:15] I know that that time took a lot of courage
[1:53:17] and I really thank you for representing the interns
[1:53:21] this morning with the safety message.
[1:53:24] This intern class this year,
[1:53:27] bought to the toeway this summer,
[1:53:29] so much experience and expertise.
[1:53:32] This summer, we were so proud to welcome 39 interns
[1:53:35] and they represented 29 universities.
[1:53:38] And over 11 weeks, they gained hands on experience
[1:53:41] across 13 departments and contribute to real world projects with the Toeway professionals in
[1:53:48] the field and the office and really across the Toeway system. Our Toeway internship program
[1:53:55] is an investment in the future of transportation. It introduces talented students to meaningful public
[1:54:02] service careers while bringing the fresh ideas, the energy and their perspective to the Toeway.
[1:54:08] So again, I am so proud of what this year's interns have accomplished, I'm grateful to the mentors and the staff who share their time and expertise to make this such a successful experience for them.
[1:54:21] And I'm pleased to note that 10 of our interns are extending their time with us, and that really speaks again to the experience that they had and the connections that they have built with our teams.
[1:54:34] So with that, I'd now like to turn to the next portion of the second director's report.
[1:54:42] So I'm going to have a lot of good mornings this morning.
[1:54:46] So bear with me.
[1:54:48] So good morning once again, Chairman.
[1:54:49] And I'm also directors of the board two months ago.
[1:54:55] We came before you to introduce driving connections.
[1:55:00] Which was the result of more than two years of strategic planning, analysis, and engagement that was focused on the future of the Illinois Towa.
[1:55:11] Since then, we have taken that conversation directly to the 12 counties that we serve, holding 13 public hearings, and providing multiple ways for customers, for communities and for stakeholders to participate.
[1:55:28] During that process, we had more than 1,100 people that joined us in person and thousands
[1:55:38] more shared their views through surveys, written comments and online engagement.
[1:55:45] During that process, we heard from customers, businesses, labor, transportation partners, and community
[1:55:51] leaders.
[1:55:51] We heard support, we heard concerns, and we heard important questions about affordability,
[1:56:00] about accountability, congestion, and our responsibility to maintain the system that we already have.
[1:56:09] But that is exactly what this process was intended to do.
[1:56:14] Nearly 1.7 million drivers rely on the railway system every day, and their expectations are clear.
[1:56:21] They want a system that is safe, a system that is reliable and prepared for the future.
[1:56:28] They want the toll way to address congestion.
[1:56:31] They want the toll way to plan ahead, whether then wait until infrastructure falls and fails
[1:56:37] or becomes problems and becomes more expensive to solve.
[1:56:42] So today, more than two years of work and the completed public process come together.
[1:56:49] as the Board considers what's next for the Illinois Tollway System.
[1:56:55] Before we begin that discussion, I want to take you through the region,
[1:57:03] and highlight the people who participated in the process,
[1:57:07] and the people who helped shape the public record that is before you today.
[1:57:12] Driving
[1:57:17] connections is the only way to continue with investment in infrastructure, but also what it represents is just an opportunity for us to continuously approve upon safety for our travelers.
[1:57:28] If an opportunity for us to really deliver projects that will bring about economic development for this region, it also was an opportunity for us to provide jobs, it's an opportunity for us to really connect communities.
[1:57:40] We have the hosting public hearing in each of the 12th-to-way counties, but public will be given a chance to review the proposal and share feedback directly with us.
[1:57:52] The most important piece of this planning is listening.
[1:57:55] This listening to our travelers.
[1:57:57] This listening to those that do business with us.
[1:57:59] We want to make sure no voice is left unheard.
[1:58:02] So we've certainly done our due diligence with a lot of industry groups.
[1:58:05] Over the last two, two and a half years.
[1:58:07] Now it's time to listen to the public.
[1:58:09] The people who are going to be using the roadway,
[1:58:11] the people who are going to be impacted by these projects.
[1:58:14] And I'm very excited to say thank you because what you're doing now
[1:58:17] is ensuring that the future generation of young men and women
[1:58:20] who are working on this for you will have job opportunities.
[1:58:22] I strongly believe as a parent that these investments are necessary
[1:58:27] to ensure that the transportation system remains dependable.
[1:58:32] Not only for us, but for our future generations.
[1:58:35] We'll see, let's all reach a local 1.50 and I'm very grateful to local 1.50 and the
[1:58:40] toll way for being able to work on about 850 million dollar project because without
[1:58:46] that estimate in class, I wouldn't have the intellectual capacity to be on some of these jobs
[1:58:51] I'd be today.
[1:58:52] As a retired senior citizen living out of fixed income, I know first hand that increases in
[1:58:58] every day costs add up quickly.
[1:59:00] I respectfully ask the board to consider the impact on tax payers and reject this proposed
[1:59:06] toll increase.
[1:59:07] Chop drivers, why wouldn't they get this child?
[1:59:10] This program creates opportunities for engineering excellence and for people to live
[1:59:15] a quality of life that they may not have experienced before.
[1:59:20] We have millions of travel our system and central you make their commune in their daily lives
[1:59:26] better by using our system.
[1:59:27] Knowing that we are surrounded by the public, I'm in North Mass numbers, it's really important for us to ensure that we are
[1:59:35] sourcing them in the way that really benefits them in their daily life.
[1:59:39] The impact is really important is shaping how we move, how we invest, how we deliver projects,
[1:59:44] the timing of that delivery to make sure it's complimenting some of the strategic investments that the communities are making over the years to come.
[1:59:58] We really took the time to make sure...
[2:00:00] We were talking to our partners, our customers, communities throughout the region to understand how we could align
[2:00:05] priorities with regional goals.
[2:00:13] This project is so important for everybody on our system. 26 and a half billion dollars.
[2:00:19] We are really going to need the economy in the region. People are going to go to work. Companies are going to grow. They're going to hire people. They're going to spend money. It's going to be a great cycle.
[2:00:29] I'm a frequent user of the Illinois TOLA and I support the driving connections capital
[2:00:33] program because it will continue through the TOLA system by funding and critical maintenance
[2:00:38] and future infrastructure projects.
[2:00:41] I see so many opportunities that I've been a fitting daily commuters every day.
[2:00:46] Jobing connections is important to me because I think this election on the Illinois TOLA
[2:00:51] understanding is drivers and the listening that we are undertaking in the moment really
[2:00:56] allows us to ensure that we have prioritized those infected and ways that will benefit those communities,
[2:01:04] allow those communities to grow, to bring jobs and opportunities with the two those communities,
[2:01:09] and ensure that families can continue to thrive in the way that they see that and moving some
[2:01:14] one place or another.
[2:01:25] Well, represents only a portion of the participation in the feedback we receive across the region.
[2:01:30] But what it reflects is the breadth of the voices that informed this process.
[2:01:37] Every comment submitted during the process has been collected and reviewed, and
[2:01:41] ensuring that the board has a benefit of a complete public record, and as it considers
[2:01:46] the proposal that is before us today, I have asked Archive of Planning, Ken Robles, to
[2:01:53] walk us through what that engagement and summarize what we heard, the highlights of the priorities
[2:01:59] and the customers that shared with us, Karen.
[2:02:04] Thank you, Cassandra.
[2:02:05] Good morning, everyone.
[2:02:07] I am excited to be here today to highlight the progress that you've made on the driving
[2:02:11] connections capital program and to provide that detailed summary of our recent public engagement.
[2:02:18] Before we dive into the statistics and discuss the feedback that we received,
[2:02:21] I want to provide a quick snapshot of our overall process.
[2:02:24] They're
[2:02:30] all aware that driving connections program and the associated tool of adjustment was
[2:02:35] invented to the board back in June. This launched our two-month public outreach and engagement
[2:02:40] process designed to gather and solicit feedback from customers and stakeholders. These several
[2:02:46] outreach strategies to share information on the proposed plan, the associated toll increase,
[2:02:51] and to encourage people to participate in our process. More than 4 million customer emails were
[2:02:57] for providing information about the program and encouraging them to submit comments.
[2:03:02] These emails generated an open rate of approximately 55%.
[2:03:06] The driving connections was paid to track it more than 130,000 visitors right in our public comment period.
[2:03:13] Social media also played an important role in our process with dozens of posts reaching a wide audience
[2:03:18] and generating significant engagement across all of our platforms.
[2:03:22] For example, while the public comment process did not allow us to directly engage with the
[2:03:27] people who are providing feedback, it didn't take the opportunity to utilize social media
[2:03:32] to provide additional information to answer questions and provide clarity around some misconceptions
[2:03:37] about the full way, and I'll highlight some of this later in my presentation.
[2:03:42] For anyone that was unable to attend one of our 13 in-person public hearings,
[2:03:47] of virtual version was put on our website and we saw hundreds of additional views providing another
[2:03:53] accessible way for the public to participate in and learn about the proposed program into
[2:03:58] already increased. The toll way also ran public notices several times in newspapers in
[2:04:03] all 12 toll way counties in accordance with the requirements of the Illinois toll Highway Act.
[2:04:10] Here you can see our metric dashboard. We used this to monitor our efforts throughout the process
[2:04:16] to make sure we were reaching a broad audience.
[2:04:19] This data also helped us to adapt our outreach along the way
[2:04:22] to ensure that we were reaching our customers
[2:04:24] through a variety of methods.
[2:04:26] For example, we leveraged our relationships across the region
[2:04:29] so that we didn't have to rely on our efforts alone.
[2:04:32] We worked with local councils of government
[2:04:34] to ensure our messages were reaching a broader audience
[2:04:36] through community-based outreach,
[2:04:38] like municipal social media and newsletters.
[2:04:43] Overall, we collected more than 18,500 public comments.
[2:04:47] Approximately 73% of those, more than 13,500 of these responses, came from our online comment form, and the remainder came from email, the mail, and public hearings.
[2:05:00] Public sentiment varied across engagement channels, comments received during the public hearing process were approximately 79% supportive, 15% opposed and 5% neutral, whereas comments submitted through our online channels were approximately 17% supportive, 76% opposed and 7% neutral.
[2:05:22] This distinction highlights the importance of providing multiple engagement channels as different audiences chose to participate in different ways.
[2:05:31] I'd also like to point out that the feedback we received came from across the entire toll
[2:05:35] way region.
[2:05:37] This map shows where responses came from with each circle representing a difference
[2:05:40] of code, and the corresponding number of responses.
[2:05:44] As expected, we saw a lot of responses from Cook County and the Collar counties, but we
[2:05:49] were pleased to see that we had engagement and responses from across all 12 counties that are
[2:05:54] served by the toll way.
[2:05:58] The public hearings were a key component of our outreach, and they were conducted in accordance
[2:06:02] with the requirements of the Illinois Total Highway Act.
[2:06:06] Our goal for these public hearings was simple to ensure
[2:06:09] customers, communities, businesses, elected officials,
[2:06:13] and stakeholders had meaningful opportunities
[2:06:15] to learn about the program and the associated
[2:06:17] brave increase and allow them in opportunity
[2:06:20] to voice their thoughts on the proposed toll increase.
[2:06:23] We held 13 public hearings including
[2:06:25] two in Cook County from July 13 to July 24.
[2:06:32] Each hearing began with a presentation
[2:06:34] regarding the proposed driving connections capital program and the proposed whole rate increase.
[2:06:39] After the presentation, attendees were given the opportunity to provide verbal comments,
[2:06:43] which were documented by a court reporter. Attenties wishing to comment, but not speak,
[2:06:48] were able to submit comments, either electronically using their smartphones or on told-way provided
[2:06:53] tablets at the hearings or in-writing using physical comment cards. All of these comments are included
[2:06:59] in the official record. In total, we welcome more than 1100 attendees to the hearings. We also collected
[2:07:06] more than 400 and 40 comments across those 13 hearings. Approximately 340 of those comments
[2:07:12] were verbal with the remainder submitted in writing.
[2:07:17] As part of our online comment form and the
[2:07:19] in-person comment cards, we included a short multiple choice survey question, asking respondents
[2:07:24] what their priorities are for the 12-way system. The tap priority for the public was affordability
[2:07:30] followed closely by well maintained rows. This is a good representation of the overall feedback
[2:07:35] we received that the public expects a high quality, well maintained system, while still offering
[2:07:41] good value and affordability.
[2:07:46] As we reviewed thousands of comments several consistent themes
[2:07:49] emerge and I'll go through those briefly. Affordability was at the forefront of many comments and any
[2:07:55] participants appreciated the told ways self-funded, user-based structure, viewing it as a fair and
[2:08:01] sustainable way to fund operations and improvements.
[2:08:05] The future toll increases to do inflation were also a frequent comment with some participants
[2:08:10] noting the predictability and fiscal stability that automated increases provide.
[2:08:15] While some attendees were concerned that automatic increases could mean less opportunity
[2:08:19] for input on the need for those future increases.
[2:08:24] We also heard some concerns about the cumulative cost of living increases at a time of higher
[2:08:28] inflation. Some participants raised concerns about proposed commercial vehicle rate increases
[2:08:34] and highlighted the impacts this proposed constant increase could have on their businesses.
[2:08:40] Customer experience was also a significant theme. Drivers recognized the value of well-meaning
[2:08:45] team roads, reliable travel times, and road side assistance provided by the tollway. Participants
[2:08:51] also noted that tollway access was a key factor in choosing where to live, citing convenient
[2:08:56] connections to jobs, services, and regional destinations, and how a congestion-free system was a top priority for them.
[2:09:04] They acknowledged that investing in infrastructure today helps reduce future maintenance needs and avoid more costly repairs down the road.
[2:09:11] Any commenters also distrust opportunities and economic impacts that result from TOLA investments.
[2:09:18] Commenters acknowledged the TOLA's role in sparking economic growth, citing how TOLA access
[2:09:23] encourages business investment and job opportunities and surrounding communities.
[2:09:28] They also recognize that continued TOLA investment helps sustain thousands of skilled trade straps providing stable family supporting careers.
[2:09:36] Commence also are revolved around the agency and general accountability.
[2:09:41] The general misconception was that the totally revenues were going to be
[2:09:44] diverted to not only use this like transit, they are not.
[2:09:49] Commence also revolved around whether the proposed increase is necessary
[2:09:52] and whether additional cost-saving opportunities have been fully explored.
[2:09:57] And lastly, questions were also raised about general oversight.
[2:10:00] And the transparency of the agency. In closing, I'd like to thank the Board, executive leadership, and the staff who made this public outreach process successful.
[2:10:10] It was an intense process, but we're really pleased with the results that we received.
[2:10:14] Overall, the level of engagement with experienced demonstrates how important the tool is to the communities and the customers we serve.
[2:10:21] The conclusion of this outreach process, our team reviewed the comments submitted through this process to ensure that the driving connections program is aligned with the goals of our customers.
[2:10:29] of our stakeholders and our communities.
[2:10:33] That concludes my presentation and I'm happy to answer any questions.
[2:10:38] Thank you so much, Karen.
[2:10:40] Chairman Rivera and the Board.
[2:10:42] Today's presentation, it reflects both the skill and the responsibility and the strength
[2:10:47] of the public process that brought us to this point.
[2:10:50] I want to also take a moment to thank our Governor Priskar for his support and this effort
[2:10:55] and for the guiding principles that actually launched this effort a couple years ago.
[2:10:59] We have heard clearly from customers and communities, they expect a totally
[2:11:04] system that is, again, reliable, affordable, accountable and prepared for the
[2:11:08] future.
[2:11:09] And this decision before the board is significant, but they are grounded more and more than
[2:11:14] two years of analysis, a transparent public engagement process, and a share
[2:11:18] commitment to maintaining one of the region's most important transportation
[2:11:22] systems.
[2:11:24] As we move forward, our responsibility is to balance today's needs with
[2:11:29] to protect the system we have, to invest wisely in the system we need, and to ensure
[2:11:34] the Illinois toll way continues to serve customers, communities, and the regional economy
[2:11:38] for decades to come.
[2:11:40] So thank you, and I look forward to the board's discussion.
[2:11:45] I'm going to also move into the second third part of our presentation this morning, but
[2:11:51] we'll first pause and see if there are any questions from the board related to the feedback process.
[2:11:55] It's just a comment if I can't pay and you know we alluded to it briefly a lot of today's discussion was around the recent public hearing sessions but this process really started almost three years ago if you recall with the formation of the stakeholder advisory team right where we brought in a consortium of business leaders from across many different industry segments from labor from business to transportation the environment education to solicit their feedback.
[2:12:23] Following that and there were five of those sessions following that we set out. We embarked on a outreach with a lot of municipality
[2:12:30] Speak to government leaders who didn't have seated at the table with the stakeholder by treating and then transition into the more recent public hearing session
[2:12:38] So I just want to commend the staff out of that took a lot of time a lot of effort the process was inclusive
[2:12:43] It was transparent. It was disciplined. It was well thought out and I think it's also important to note while the recent public hearing sessions were
[2:12:52] mostly about soliciting feedback and listening, it was also a good opportunity for us to
[2:12:57] educate the public about the fact that we've reminded that this agency by and large doesn't
[2:13:02] receive federal funding for its projects. Talking about all of the positive impact that these
[2:13:08] projects have on quality of life, on economic impact. Look at I355 is a great example of that. Right
[2:13:15] of job creation, right, of the appreciation of property values when we come in with our infrastructure.
[2:13:21] So, I thought it was also a great way to remind everyone even with this toll increase on a comparative rate look relative to other agency and toll systems.
[2:13:32] We're still in the lower echelon of that, right? And then, and then just certainly at overview of the priorities that we've identified through these listening sessions.
[2:13:39] So, again, just want to commence that. It was three years in the making. We don't take this decision lightly.
[2:13:45] We're going to increase our toll, but I think I think we understand the history of this agency with the positive impact of these projects and look forward to embarking on this next one.
[2:13:54] Thank you.
[2:13:56] Thank you.
[2:13:57] Thank you.
[2:14:00] So as you just heard, we have engaged in a period of public comment and gather feedback to ensure driving connections, addresses, the transportation needs of our customers.
[2:14:10] Communities and the region.
[2:14:11] And today, we advance this vision by presenting the Capital Program for Consideration and Approval.
[2:14:18] This all-time year 26.5 billion, Capital Program Investment will begin in 2027,
[2:14:25] I continue through 2042, seamlessly overlapping with bridging the future
[2:14:31] to ensure continuity and project delivery and investment across the system.
[2:14:36] Draw the connections represents a significant investment in mobility and economic opportunity and the communities we serve throughout the Northern Illinois region.
[2:14:48] Now, before we discuss the program in detail, I want to recognize the extraordinary dedication, the partnership, and the vision that brought us to this moment.
[2:14:59] This is an important part.
[2:15:00] The important step forward toward shaping the future of mobility for the communities that we serve.
[2:15:07] Drawing connections is the result of more than two years of planning, engagement, and collaboration with our customers, our stakeholder partners, and again our regional leaders.
[2:15:18] We gathered input through public outreach. We were closely with partner agencies and benefited from the guidance of our stakeholder advisory team.
[2:15:28] The program, before you today, reflects the collective input and shared vision for the future of the tollway.
[2:15:35] Driving connections is also guided by five core goals.
[2:15:40] Strengthening the system, driving economic growth, maximizing prior investments,
[2:15:47] expanding regional access and leveraging technology to enhance safety and efficiency.
[2:15:52] These goals are served as a foundation for every investment that is included in this program.
[2:16:01] With that foundation in mind, I'm going to turn this over to Karen Rope was actually for planning,
[2:16:06] who will walk us through how these goals translate into the investments across the system.
[2:16:12] I'm back.
[2:16:14] Thank you, Cassandra.
[2:16:16] So, as I said, I mentioned the investments showing here on the map are really built off the foundation of those goals.
[2:16:26] And this map is intended to illustrate the regional significance of the driving connections program.
[2:16:32] And it's focused on strengthening the entire coal waste system.
[2:16:36] Every corridor in our system contributes to the success of the region.
[2:16:40] And we'll benefit from the 26.5 billion dollars driving connections capital program.
[2:16:47] So now I'm going to jump into an overview of the projects that are being included in the program on a corridor basis.
[2:16:55] So I, through 55, has been a key gateway to Chicago's Western suburbs for nearly four decades.
[2:17:00] As the region continues to grow, so do the demands on this corridor.
[2:17:03] As I were making a $6.63 billion investment to modernize the infrastructure, address congestion, and position I-355 as an innovation corridor of the future, supporting residents, businesses, and communities for decades to come.
[2:17:18] Projects in this corridor include reconstructing the I-888 I-355 interchange, reconstructing the rehabilitating segments of the roadway and upgrading our fiber system.
[2:17:28] Up next, we have IED-8, the regular memorial toll way.
[2:17:34] And IED-8 has long served as a critical link between the Chicago region and Western Illinois,
[2:17:38] connecting communities, businesses, and freight movement across nearly 100 miles.
[2:17:43] As one of the state's fastest growing economic corridors, IED-8 supports diverse industry
[2:17:48] centers and the Western suburbs, Decal, Rochelle, and Dixon.
[2:17:53] The demand continues to increase alongside growth in the technology, logistics, and freight
[2:17:57] industries.
[2:17:57] Through driving connections, we are making a $3.53 billion investment to modernize the corridor,
[2:18:04] and enhance reliability, and ensure that IIT-8 remains a powerful engine for economic growth
[2:18:08] and regional connectivity. These investments include rehabilitating segments of the roadway
[2:18:14] from Butterfield Road and the Aurora Tulsa to Washington Street, and from U.S. 30 to Stuart Road.
[2:18:20] The program also includes a new access point in Lee County, widening the congestion segment
[2:18:25] from the Aurora told Plaza to Route 59 and, again, upgrading Fiverr.
[2:18:33] Drining connections will reinforce the South Tri-State
[2:18:35] toldways role as a strategic transportation and economic asset for the Southland, the region,
[2:18:41] and the Midwest. Through a $2.39 billion investment, we're upgrading critical infrastructure
[2:18:46] and strengthening the corridor dysfunction as the largest transportation length between Illinois and Indiana.
[2:18:52] Projects and group rehabilitation and bridge reconstruction from 159th Street to 90th
[2:18:58] Street, roadway and bridge rehabilitation and widening from Illinois 394 to 159th
[2:19:04] Street, southbound widening between Holstead and Illinois 394, improving the remaining
[2:19:10] toll classes in this area and expanding our ATMS smart road system to address congestion
[2:19:15] where widening isn't feasible.
[2:19:20] Next, we have the North Tri-State, which plays an
[2:19:22] essential role in connecting more than 700,000 Lake County residents to communities and
[2:19:27] destinations across the region, while linking Illinois and Wisconsin. Through driving
[2:19:32] connections, our $3.07 billion investment will strengthen the corridor's ability to support
[2:19:37] economic activity, regional mobility, and access to the recreational and tourism destinations
[2:19:43] that attract residents and visitors alike. As part of the program, we will rehabilitate several
[2:19:48] of the roadway and bridges, including between Russell to Buckley Road, Buckley to Half
[2:19:53] Day Road, Happy Road to the Innspurs, I-294 to Innspursway and Bell Morrell Avenue.
[2:20:01] We will also upgrade the fiber system and we will expand our ATMS smart road system, which will allow us to better manage seasonal traffic to be on the North Tri-State.
[2:20:13] The Jean Adams Memorial tollway is a critical connector between Chicago land, the Northwest suburbs and the Rockford region, linking resident businesses and freight carriers to opportunities across northern Illinois.
[2:20:25] With $2.6 billion in planned investments,
[2:20:29] driving connections will strengthen this corridor's role
[2:20:31] and facilitating the efficient movement of people and goats
[2:20:34] along one of the nation's most important east-west transportation routes.
[2:20:39] On the Jane Annoyum,
[2:20:40] driving connections will include multiple segments of road and bridge rehabilitation
[2:20:43] between the Rockford, Metro Region, and Elgin.
[2:20:47] Improvements to the I-90, Least Street, and our change.
[2:20:50] We're going to be studying potential improvements to the I-90, I-290,
[2:20:54] Illinois 53, and our change.
[2:20:55] Upgrading the fiber system and expanding the ATS smart road technology based on the success
[2:21:01] of net technology on the eastern portion of this corridor.
[2:21:07] The central tricycate is the backbone and workhorse of the Illinois Toolway system, carrying
[2:21:12] more than half a million vehicles each day and supporting the movement of people, brave
[2:21:16] and commerce throughout the Chicago Land Region.
[2:21:19] Driving connections, $1.87 billion investment in this corridor will build on the corridors
[2:21:24] recent modernization efforts, strengthening its ability to deliver reliable mobility and economic
[2:21:30] access. The program includes investments in this corridor that were not included in the move
[2:21:35] Illinois program. This includes Road and Bridge Rehabilitation from 95th Street to Wolf Road
[2:21:40] and from Wolf Road to Valmoral Avenue. Design work for the I-294 Bridge over the vets of
[2:21:46] Velrealia are just also included. And to improve the I-294 Irving Park Road interchange,
[2:21:51] We're going to make that a full interchange and provide more direct access to the communities
[2:21:55] and job centers just east of O.H. Airport.
[2:22:01] Illinois, Route 390, and the future I-490
[2:22:04] toll-way play a key role in improving access to O.H. International Airport. One of the region's most important
[2:22:09] economic engines. With a completion of I-490 as part of the Mobile and I program, driving connections
[2:22:15] includes key investments that will strengthen connections to the airport and support the businesses and
[2:22:20] industries that depend on it. The $833 million investment in this area also includes bridge
[2:22:26] and robbery and limitation for the original portions of Illinois 390 that were not reconstructed
[2:22:31] as part of the move Illinois.
[2:22:37] While corner investments often take center stage, the performance of our entire
[2:22:41] total waste system depends on the infrastructure, facilities, and operational support that work
[2:22:45] behind the scenes every day. Our 5.57 trillion dollar investment and regional and program-wide initiatives
[2:22:52] will strengthen these essential assets, helping deliver state, reliable, and efficient travel
[2:22:57] for the 1.7 million customers who depend on the toll weight each day. This includes funding
[2:23:02] toll weight facility improvements, non-roboy operations, back office upgrades, and program support,
[2:23:09] as well as funding for future projects if new needs arise over the next 16 years.
[2:23:15] We'll also allocate funding for our corridor opportunities for regional enhancements,
[2:23:19] core initiative to pursue collaborative projects with peer agencies that advanced regional
[2:23:24] transportation goals. And we also have funding dedicated to furthering the toolways, sustainability,
[2:23:30] and innovation efforts. And we'll now hand things over to Kathy Williams to review the funding
[2:23:35] program.
[2:23:47] Thank you and good morning. Back again. So you've just heard from
[2:23:54] and you've heard from our executive director,
[2:23:57] Cassandra Rouse about the major improved food misplanned
[2:24:00] through 242, as I'd like to build on those remarks
[2:24:04] by walking you through how we will fund this investment.
[2:24:07] But before we get to into the specific funding approach,
[2:24:11] I want to underscore the principle that guides every financial decision
[2:24:16] that we make.
[2:24:18] Achieving the toll risk vision requires a strong,
[2:24:21] as a sustainable financial foundation,
[2:24:24] one that supports critical capital investments,
[2:24:27] ensures adequate funding for operations and maintenance,
[2:24:32] and keeps us aligned with industry best practices.
[2:24:35] At the heart of this approach is a responsible stewardship,
[2:24:40] which requires managing every dollar
[2:24:43] with transparency long-term discipline,
[2:24:47] and a commitment to maximizing public value
[2:24:50] all while safeguarding the toll waste financial strength decades to cut. So with that foundation
[2:24:57] in my name, let's talk about how the driving connections program.
[2:25:00] We'll be finding that. The total cost, as you know, of the driving connections program, is projected
[2:25:05] to be 255 billion, which translates to an estimated average annual span of 1.8 billion a year. Working
[2:25:14] with our traffic engineers to develop revenue projections and using assumptions about future death
[2:25:20] service, operating costs, and capital costs. We determined that approximately 216 billion of the driving
[2:25:28] connections program, we'll be funded with net revenues, about 78%, while the remaining
[2:25:35] will, of the 22% will be funded by bond processes of about 6 billion.
[2:25:42] This net revenue will be funded with a proposed toll increase, the proposed toll rate increase
[2:25:48] will impact both passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles.
[2:25:52] So, for example, vehicles traveling through the most common mainline toll-plasm, where toll rates
[2:25:58] are currently 75 cents, looking increase by 45 cents, and commercial vehicle rates are proposed
[2:26:04] increase by 30%.
[2:26:07] Opposed rates will go into effect January 1, 2021, with subsequent inflationary increases occurring
[2:26:16] every two years, beginning in 2020, with the cap that limits told increases to no more than
[2:26:24] 8% every two years.
[2:26:28] To tell revenue also funds our annual maintenance and operation expenses as well as annual
[2:26:33] debt service costs for the bonds issued during the program and during the prior program.
[2:26:39] So revenue is used for toll weight purposes only, and again, does not fund transit.
[2:26:46] And perhaps one importantly, the toll weight does not, as you've heard it received in
[2:26:50] the state of federal funding, everything we build, maintain and operate, is funded entirely
[2:26:55] by toll revenue and violence.
[2:26:58] We believe this proposed funding represents a fiscal, disciplined approach, designs to preserve
[2:27:04] the strongest possible credit ratings.
[2:27:12] So as Director of Patech mentioned,
[2:27:13] even with the proposed toll rate increase,
[2:27:16] toll rates still remain among the lowest national
[2:27:19] capacity cars.
[2:27:21] For passenger cars,
[2:27:22] this would be the first toll rate increase
[2:27:25] in 15 years on a system,
[2:27:27] only through seven cents a month,
[2:27:28] so seven cents a month,
[2:27:30] getting below the national average.
[2:27:33] Our goal with this proposed toll rate increase
[2:27:35] is to carefully balance project benefits with cost for drivers,
[2:27:44] and the crossroads of the nation
[2:27:45] are region is a major, freight and shipping hub, and a well-maintained, easily accessible,
[2:27:52] toll-way system is especially beneficial to our commercial vehicles. Even with this toll rate
[2:27:57] anchories, commercial vehicles will remain competitive to our national peers. One thing I'd like to
[2:28:04] point about both of these slides, we're showing you the proposed tolerate increase as a January
[2:28:10] 1st, 2027 for the child life. This is comparing to race that are current, more of these
[2:28:16] of entities as of 2026. So many of these entities are tied to CPI as well and so the rates
[2:28:23] will increase in 2027, such as one to make this. So again, access to some deficit at the crossroads
[2:28:29] of the nation in this invest in this vital, great movements
[2:28:32] and our continued national economic competitiveness.
[2:28:36] So next time, I'll return this back over to the executive director
[2:28:40] to add a few clothes in remarks.
[2:28:43] Thank you very much, Kathy, for your presentation.
[2:28:45] Before we conclude this morning, I want to recognize,
[2:28:48] again, the remarkable effort, the professionalism
[2:28:51] and the commitment that brought us to this moment.
[2:28:54] Driving connections, again, reflects years of discipline
[2:28:57] planning, analysis, engagement, and collaboration across Illinois
[2:29:02] Tohway and again throughout this region.
[2:29:06] I especially want to thank our Illinois Tohway employees, whose expertise and their dedication
[2:29:12] are at the heart of this program, along with our partners, community leaders, stakeholders,
[2:29:18] and board members who help shape this path forward.
[2:29:21] So I'll be happy to Illinois Tohway.
[2:29:23] Thank you for the leadership, the collaboration and sheer commitment that made this
[2:29:27] possible, again, thank you to our governor, J.B. Pritzker, and as we have discussed, driving
[2:29:32] connections is more than a set of projects. It is a long-term investment and the people
[2:29:39] and the communities and businesses that depend on the total waste system every day.
[2:29:43] This program reflects our responsibility to strengthen the transportation network to support
[2:29:49] economic opportunity, expand access and prepare Northern Illinois for the future.
[2:29:55] We are proud of the collaboration that brought us here.
[2:30:00] We are ready to turn this vision into realities through investors that will strengthen communities, a support
[2:30:05] growth, and keep Northern Illinois moving forward.
[2:30:11] So at this time, today we are seeking your approval
[2:30:15] of the driving-connected program and associated toll increase. And with your approval we can move forward with
[2:30:21] the program proud of this strong fiscal responsibility, built on discipline planning, sustainable funding,
[2:30:27] and careful stewardship of customer dollars.
[2:30:31] While delivering lasting value for our customers,
[2:30:34] communities, and our growing region.
[2:30:36] So at this time, I'll turn things over to back to the chairman.
[2:30:38] All right.
[2:30:38] Thank you, Cassandra.
[2:30:39] Are there any questions or comments on the board?
[2:30:43] I'll let you know.
[2:30:44] Is this a show?
[2:30:46] And I still have an item to present.
[2:30:48] Yes, I do.
[2:30:49] Do you like to do that first?
[2:30:50] Yes, I do.
[2:30:53] Thank you, too.
[2:30:54] Any comments before I turn it back to over to Cassandra?
[2:30:56] I want to thank, you know, on the behalf of the entire board, I want to thank the entire
[2:31:00] management team for the work that got us here, you know, your intentionality and the
[2:31:04] planning and engagement is reflected in this proposed plan, so I want to thank you all
[2:31:09] for that.
[2:31:10] I want to thank the board, I mean, you guys have been with the team, guidance and engagement
[2:31:14] through every step of the process and, you know, we're much better off, because of that
[2:31:18] and then, you know, I echo Cassandra's thanks to the governor for his leadership and his
[2:31:23] believe in this agency to develop and execute a plan at the scale. So with that, I will turn
[2:31:29] it back over to Cassandra, and she ends one item per consideration.
[2:31:34] Thank you very much, Chairman. So this morning, I'm Directors and Chairman, I am pleased to
[2:31:39] present for the Board's consideration. The Illinois Tollways Proposed 26.5 billion dollar driving
[2:31:45] connections happen to a plan and corresponding to all increases. The proposed plan is based on
[2:31:51] non-regional and community input and prioritizes keeping the system and a state of good
[2:31:57] repair while advancing customer focus improvements, strategic interchange expansions, and
[2:32:03] technology investments that strengthen reliability, expand access, and promote long-term
[2:32:09] regional economic growth.
[2:32:12] As required by the TOL Highway Act, the proposed TOL Red increases necessary to fund the
[2:32:19] planned were presented for public comment at 13 hearings held in July. Following the hearings,
[2:32:27] public comments were reviewed and detailed and provided to the Toeway Board in conjunction with
[2:32:33] the recommendation and request that the Board approved the plan and approved the proposed Toe
[2:32:39] rig increases necessary to support and fund the capital plan. So today we are seeking the Board's approval
[2:32:48] of the proposed driving connections capital plan, approval of the proposed toll rate increases
[2:32:54] necessary to support the plan, which rates will take effect on January 1, 27, and to account
[2:33:02] for inflation will be adjusted every year based on CPI with a maximum allowable increase of
[2:33:10] percent every two years. CPI adjustments will begin in 2029. Approval is requested and
[2:33:20] authorization to take any and all actions necessary to implement the proposed
[2:33:25] toll rate increases. We are also seeking approval for the Chief Financial
[2:33:31] Officer to declare as when necessary. The official intent of the toll
[2:33:37] to issue obligations to reimburse the toll way for expenditures made for capital projects of the
[2:33:45] toll way and approval for the executive director of the toll way to seek the government's approval
[2:33:52] approval only if the plan is ever revised in a way that makes approval necessary. Please note there
[2:34:01] No additional approval required beyond the Board's action today on the capital program that
[2:34:08] has been presented and the Associated Tolerate Increases.
[2:34:13] So thank you, Mr. Chairman, and the directors for your consideration of the title.
[2:34:18] Thank you, Cassandra.
[2:34:19] Are there any questions from the Board?
[2:34:23] Yes.
[2:34:23] Thank you.
[2:34:25] One question to clarify.
[2:34:27] You can get on a record, I think it's important.
[2:34:31] The post-lams and periods have include labels that could be read.
[2:34:35] That the governor has an approval and approval role
[2:34:39] with respect to the Toaways capital plan.
[2:34:41] And I don't believe the Illinois Toa Act
[2:34:44] to create and approve procedure.
[2:34:47] Adding another procedure.
[2:34:50] The governor, it goes back to the governor for two things.
[2:34:52] for any additional highway routes we may want to build on.
[2:34:57] You'll be able to be an example of one.
[2:35:00] We need the governors approval. And then the binding is limited to cost estimates. I think
[2:35:09] primary plans, those sort of things as well. But that is it, under the act. Is that the way
[2:35:17] we understand it is a board or is it just me? Absolutely. That is the way you should interpret
[2:35:22] the requirements of your people from the governor base upon the act. And as I stated,
[2:35:28] based upon the plan that has been presented for the board today, and the Associated
[2:35:33] Tolerary, Great Increases to Fund, and the Associated, you know, CPI, just with every two years,
[2:35:38] the board has the authority to make that decision to approve without any additional approvals
[2:35:44] from the office of the governor. Thank you. So would that, would that language be put in in the
[2:35:54] And the resolution, it will very clearly state an actual turn that over to legal, but I will say that it will clearly state that this approval, that whatever the approval is from the board here today, will be all that's necessary in order to move forward with the driving connections program and the associated total rate increases.
[2:36:15] So it's clear that once this forward passes to a resolution like this capital improvement plan,
[2:36:23] The only other approval needed is that the governor's for those who narrow
[2:36:29] particulars
[2:36:30] Exactly only if and as you describe the expansions and the event that you know there's some other major or material project
[2:36:38] With that qualifies underneath the statute that will be the only time
[2:36:43] But this program does not have any such project that would qualify or would necessitate an approvals from the governor's office
[2:36:51] Thank you.
[2:36:52] You're welcome.
[2:36:54] Any questions?
[2:36:56] I just want to, you know, it's a question based around accountability and oversight.
[2:37:01] I just want to make sure both Karen and Kathy mentioned it in their presentation, so
[2:37:06] thank you.
[2:37:07] I would like to ask maybe for a little bit more detail, because I think it's important
[2:37:11] for a public to hear and maybe Kathleen Ray and on this as well.
[2:37:15] There's two things. One is the the biannium increases. If we could just talk a little bit about how the future boards can weigh in on that increase after today's vote.
[2:37:31] But more importantly, number two, and again, you both talked about it. The protection of the toll waste money.
[2:37:37] I'm a nerd, I've read this totally at 65 pages multiple times, so I understand the legislative portion of that and how it's protected.
[2:37:47] But if you could just maybe for the public, talk a little bit about that, and then the second piece about the trust engine and how we're protected under the trust engine.
[2:37:55] And I'll just leave off by just indicating that again, the totally funds are used on a totally system.
[2:38:00] And then also our funds are not used to fund trends and operations, which we have asserted during a public hearing process.
[2:38:06] and we will continue to bring that forward, that message forward as well, and in regard to the other financial data data I will turn it over to our CFO, so she's sitting next to me.
[2:38:17] So the question about the manual and later and how will you be able to monitor and capture that?
[2:38:25] And that's a really good question, and we will continue to provide the board with first of all the short term view that we do every year during the budget process, which will show our revenue and anticipated revenue for the community.
[2:38:36] current year forecast for the end of year, as well as the revenue for the next year, which is provided by our traffic engineer and certified by traffic engineer and our operating and capital needs for that year on an annual basis and then in addition to that we will provide the board and update on our longer term financial need so we all will have those again those revenue estimates that's provided by traffic engineer on the long term basis and we'll show that our operating and capital needs on the long term basis through our
[2:39:06] the plan to see how those revenues are continuing to fund the operating and capital needs and
[2:39:13] improvements on the toll way. You also have to save for those amendments, which was passed,
[2:39:19] which gives legislation which amended the Constitution to protect road funds,
[2:39:24] that are particular for roads like tolls, so we've got layered protections here.
[2:39:30] And then when you stay still, right? And then when other protection is that the toll highway act
[2:39:36] is we're required by the toll-high react to maintain rates
[2:39:39] if the lowest reasonable rate sufficient to provide necessary need
[2:39:45] to cover our MNO and our reconstruction improvements
[2:39:49] to the system as well and our debt service.
[2:39:52] So we have to maintain the lowest reasonable rate
[2:39:55] possible to do that.
[2:39:57] So they address the accountability piece as well.
[2:40:01] And I think the other question was.
[2:40:03] Around the trust and danger and the legislative protections.
[2:40:08] Yes, because we mentioned it also, the fact that our trust and denture were choirs.
[2:40:12] That toll way fund to be used specifically for toll way purposes.
[2:40:16] So anything, again, anything, you know, this trying to fund other things would have to,
[2:40:24] would be a conflict with our trust and attention.
[2:40:27] I'm a general council perspective, anything to ask.
[2:40:31] No, and we will make clear in the resolution that no further action relative to approval
[2:40:36] is fire by hitting at a person or enemy to approve the plan or approve the total increases
[2:40:41] or approve the subsequent increases to the total.
[2:40:46] One of the follow-up questions on the CPI?
[2:40:50] Yes.
[2:40:50] When that falls around, this vote today is, they only vote needed for that to continue now.
[2:40:58] Exactly, that is correct.
[2:41:00] That is correct.
[2:41:00] It's automatic.
[2:41:03] I have a follow-up to the responsible stewardship piece.
[2:41:06] So the automatic CPI over two years.
[2:41:11] 15 years will come and go.
[2:41:14] Future generations, we talked about the Future Generational Impact.
[2:41:16] is that will that just continue but increase is it an automatic after what happens after
[2:41:24] do we have to continue to do that increase, especially as it relates to our potential investors
[2:41:31] on I know required for fund proceeds but can you talk a little bit about that component?
[2:41:38] Sure.
[2:41:38] The total, the, our trust and adventure,
[2:41:43] seven or six of our trust and adventure,
[2:41:45] gives the exclusive right of this company board
[2:41:48] to the asset rates, change rates,
[2:41:52] so that exquisite right exists for this board.
[2:41:55] So again, as we continue to show our need
[2:41:58] and our need for those rate increases
[2:42:01] as far as how it funds our system,
[2:42:05] I'll continue to find as we'll continue to provide
[2:42:07] to the board so you can make that continue to evaluate the need for that.
[2:42:13] But it is a true supply of the board to be able to set toll rates.
[2:42:18] So thank you, and there was, I know there was feedback
[2:42:21] concern from the comments or stakeholders, users about the impacts to, especially for the communities
[2:42:31] that are on fixed income.
[2:42:32] What programs do we have available to assist our stakeholders to help with the increase in?
[2:42:42] Yes, absolutely.
[2:42:43] Thank you.
[2:42:43] Great question.
[2:42:44] We have great programs to actually help.
[2:42:47] Obviously, we heard that affordability was an issue.
[2:42:50] And that's why we have our IPAS assist program.
[2:42:53] And so we really encourage our, you know,
[2:42:55] traveling travelers on the to a system to really utilize every source.
[2:42:59] We have streamlined the application process.
[2:43:02] It takes minutes to see if you qualify and the I pass, you know, the I pass assist program has
[2:43:10] held lots of customers, but again, you only know, you will hopefully, you'll only utilize
[2:43:15] if you know about it.
[2:43:16] So I'm really making it appeal to the public for those that, you know, have the affordability
[2:43:21] issue to please.
[2:43:22] Utilize our I pass assist program, we also have a payment network out there to assist with
[2:43:28] making payment obviously off your invoices so you can avoid fines and fees there out in the
[2:43:34] neighborhoods where you already pay your bills and obviously our customer service center
[2:43:39] is available as well. So we do have programs that really assist our patrons if there
[2:43:46] are affordability issues with paying the tolls.
[2:43:51] Maybe I'm going to mention it as well, because sometimes I want to.
[2:43:55] Yes, thank you.
[2:43:56] And then I pass.
[2:43:57] Something else we found out is that with an iPass account if you're an iPass customer,
[2:44:01] you are already receiving a discount.
[2:44:02] You will receive a discount on your toes.
[2:44:05] So we also encourage the other public to utilize and become an iPass customer.
[2:44:11] And maybe we can do an extra little push.
[2:44:14] Yes.
[2:44:14] So, you know, how wonderful I in terms, you know, helped with our safety videos and they also kind of helped to work on some some videos to help us market our various programs related to toe payment and then also our programs that are trusting affordability issue.
[2:44:32] And making sure they're completely marketing and making known that our iPads, you know, users, you know, haven't discounted toe rate available to them.
[2:44:43] Any other questions?
[2:44:49] We have no other questions.
[2:44:50] May I have a motion to approve?
[2:44:51] The Illinois Tolway Driving Connections Capital Plan
[2:44:54] and of course, bonding toll increases as present.
[2:44:58] That's pretty cool.
[2:45:00] We're just supposed to do it here.
[2:45:01] Come on, let me go.
[2:45:04] We did a second.
[2:45:05] Yeah, I'd make the motion address him on.
[2:45:10] Director Sweeney's concerns.
[2:45:12] Can we have a second?
[2:45:14] All right.
[2:45:15] It's been moved in second.
[2:45:16] Are there any additional questions or concerns on the sign-up?
[2:45:19] Hearing none, Christie may have a roll call on the motion.
[2:45:22] Director Connelly?
[2:45:24] Director Nettemire? Yes. Director Gomez? Yes.
[2:45:27] Director Mehmet? Yes.
[2:45:28] Yes.
[2:45:29] Director Sweeney.
[2:45:31] Yes.
[2:45:32] Director Wright.
[2:45:34] Yes.
[2:45:34] Chairman Rivera.
[2:45:34] Yes.
[2:45:35] Eight Yays and Zero Nays.
[2:45:37] All right.
[2:45:37] The motion passes.
[2:45:38] This item is approved.
[2:45:41] Sounded?
[2:45:42] Thank you.
[2:45:43] So thank you, Chairman.
[2:45:45] I have no additional items this morning.
[2:45:50] Let me find more.
[2:45:52] No.
[2:45:52] There we go.
[2:45:53] Thank you.
[2:45:55] So.
[2:45:55] So, next to the agenda are there are many guidance for consideration, and there are information
[2:45:59] technology.
[2:46:00] We have a few items this month.
[2:46:01] May have an emotional proof information technology item 1.
[2:46:06] The second order, there are any questions that are concerned on this side.
[2:46:09] Hearing none of those in favor of seeing the five by saying aye, all opposed?
[2:46:14] The motion passes, information technology item 1 is approved.
[2:46:17] Directed that as indicated in advance, is wish to reduce yourself on information technology item 2.
[2:46:22] May have emotional proof information technology item 2.
[2:46:25] as presented.
[2:46:27] To move in second, are there any questions or concerns on this sign?
[2:46:31] If you're in non-Christian, may I have a roll call on the motion to approve?
[2:46:34] Dr. Pauline?
[2:46:35] Dr. Nettemire?
[2:46:37] Yes. Dr. Goldnes?
[2:46:38] Yes. Dr. Meta?
[2:46:39] Dr. Patrick?
[2:46:40] Yes. Dr. Sweeney?
[2:46:42] Yes. Dr. Wright?
[2:46:42] Yes.
[2:46:43] Chairman Rivera?
[2:46:44] Yes.
[2:46:44] 78 zero days and one recusal.
[2:46:47] The motion passes information technology.
[2:46:49] Two is approved.
[2:46:50] Next on the facilities and the operations, we have one item this month.
[2:46:53] May have a motion to approve facilities in three operations item 1.
[2:46:58] So within second, are there any additional questions or concerns on this item?
[2:47:02] Here are none. All those in favor signify by saying aye.
[2:47:05] Aye. All opposed.
[2:47:08] The motion passes facilities in three operations item 1 is approved.
[2:47:11] Under engineering, we have three items.
[2:47:14] Without objection, we'll take these items as a group.
[2:47:16] May have a motion to consolidate for consideration and action engineering items are 1 through 3.
[2:47:21] Second.
[2:47:22] to remove the seconded, all those in favour, signify by saying aye, all opposed.
[2:47:27] The motion passes.
[2:47:28] The motion to consolidate these items have been carried, they now have the motion to approve
[2:47:32] engineering items 1 through 3.
[2:47:34] So, no.
[2:47:35] Seconded.
[2:47:35] To remove the seconded, are there any additional questions and concerns and any of these
[2:47:38] items?
[2:47:40] Here are none.
[2:47:41] All those in favour, signify by saying aye, all opposed.
[2:47:45] The motion passes, engineering items 1 through 3 are approved.
[2:47:48] Well, under legal we have four items, with an objection, with the for action on legal items
[2:47:53] 2, 2, 4, until after consideration in executive session.
[2:47:57] May have a motion to approve legal item 1, so it is a moving second, are there any additional
[2:48:03] questions or concerns on this item?
[2:48:06] Hearing none, are those in favor signify by saying aye?
[2:48:10] All opposed?
[2:48:11] The motion passes legal item 1 is approved.
[2:48:14] Next, on the agenda is executive session, may have a motion to enter executive session
[2:48:18] question pursuant to exceptions provided in section 2C5, 11 and 21 of them open meetings act
[2:48:25] to consider toe-way matters related to the purchase or sale of real property, pending
[2:48:30] or probable litigation and the minutes of closed meetings.
[2:48:34] So, we move them seconded.
[2:48:36] All those in favour of seeing the five by saying aye.
[2:48:39] All opposed?
[2:48:40] The motion passes.
[2:48:41] We will now move through executive session.
[2:48:42] Thank you very much.
[3:27:53] May have a motion of future, item 2, the executive session minutes, the Board of Directors meeting held July 16, 2026.
[3:28:00] The move in seconded, all those in favor, seeing the five essay night, all opposed, the motion passes, the minutes are approved.
[3:28:07] Under legal, we have three remaining items, without objectionable to take these items to the group, may have a motion to consolidate for consideration and action, legal items, two through through.
[3:28:15] So, we'll move in seconded, all those in favor, seeing the five essay night, all opposed, the motion passes, the motion to consolidate the items,
[3:28:23] having carried may not have a motion to approve legal items to do for as discussed in executive
[3:28:28] session.
[3:28:30] To move in second, are there any additional questions or concerns in these items?
[3:28:35] Here are not all those in favour of seeing the five of us saying, aye, I'm opposed.
[3:28:40] The motion passes legal items to do for approved next is unfinished business.
[3:28:44] Is there any unfinished business to board wishes and discuss?
[3:28:48] Yes, heavy lifted by the women.
[3:28:50] Thank you.
[3:28:51] Thank you.
[3:28:52] No, that's what the record is, or any new business, or version of the stress.
[3:28:57] All right?
[3:28:58] If there's no further business before the board may have a motion adjourn.
[3:29:00] So moved.
[3:29:01] Second.
[3:29:02] Do you move in second and all those in favour of seeing the five by saying aye?
[3:29:04] Aye.
[3:29:05] All opposed.
[3:29:06] The motion passes.
[3:29:07] We are adjourned.
[3:29:07] Thank you, everyone.
[3:29:08] Congratulations.
[3:29:09] Thank you.