Quinn Signs Transportation Bills

Governor Pat Quinn got out Thursday morning to sign two new bills pertaining to transportation in the state of Illinois.

The first, House Bill 1377, will require local governments to provide up-to-date truck route information to the Illinois Department of Transportation to be posted online.

"Today’s action marks another important step we have taken to improve Illinois’ business climate,” Quinn said in a statement. "Helping businesses operate more efficiently helps them create jobs and keep our economy moving forward."

The second bill Quinn signed will allow the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Regional Transportation Authority and Pace to begin allowing commuter buses to drive on the shoulders of the Stevenson Expressway.

The pilot program is expected to reduce travel times through the Interstate 55 corridor, improve bus schedule reliability and encourage people to take advantage of public transportation.

"This innovative transportation pilot program will use existing resources to benefit both drivers and transit riders," Quinn said in a statement. "By easing congesting and improving public transportation we can increase the quality of life for people throughout the region."

The program does come with some limitations. The shoulders will only be available to buses when traffic is going slower than 35 miles per hour, and they are restricted to traveling no more than 15 miles per hour over the top speed in the main lanes. Buses will not be able to drive faster than 35 miles per hour at any time.

The shoulders will also be off limits during snow removal, vehicle breakdowns, traffic stops or during maintenance.

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