Protecting the Environment Every Project, Every Time
The Illinois Tollway integrates environmental protection into every stage of its construction process – because building infrastructure also means being responsible stewards of the surrounding environment.
Before work begins, Tollway environmental experts work closely with construction teams to provide training on identifying and protecting sensitive natural resources and endangered species, including the Blanding’s turtle and Hines Emerald dragonfly.
This guidance continues throughout construction, ensuring crews remain aware of their surroundings and prepared to respond appropriately if wildlife is encountered.
This proactive, systemwide approach reflects the Tollway’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship. Protecting ecosystems is not treated as a separate task or tied to a single project – it is embedded in how work is planned, communicated and carried out across the entire system.
By prioritizing education, awareness and responsible practices in the field, the Tollway is helping ensure that infrastructure improvements and environmental protection go hand in hand – on every project, every day.