Inside the Tollway

In 2024, numerous Illinois Tollway teams accomplished a major safety milestone: zero workplace injuries for the entire year.

This milestone speaks volumes about the deep-rooted culture of safety these teams have built – one that is grounded in awareness, communication and mutual care among team members.

“The culture of safety at the Illinois Tollway reflects the professionalism our employees bring to work every day, serving as the foundation for everything we do,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse. “Whether it's in the field, in a shop or in an office, our teams take great pride in creating an environment where everyone looks out for one another.”

Last year, the Safety Department expanded its zero-injury recognition program to honor a broader range of teams across the agency. Previously, only maintenance facilities were acknowledged for reaching this important milestone as part of competition for the Go the Extra Mile for Safety Award. Now the program highlights the outstanding commitment demonstrated to safety throughout the agency, with 16 different teams being recognized for maintaining a spotless injury record, including:

·        Roadway Lighting

·        Central Auto Garage

·        Mobile Shop

·        E06 Building Maintenance

·        E02 Building Maintenance

·        Custodial Services

·        Hillside (M-2) Fleet Staff

·        Park Ridge (M-3) Fleet Staff

·        Hoffman Estates (M-5) Fleet Staff

·        Marengo (M-6) Fleet Staff

·        Rockford (M-7) Fleet Staff

·        Aurora (M-8) Fleet Staff

·        DeKalb (M-11) Fleet Staff

·        Dixon (M-12) Fleet Staff

·        Downers Grove (M-14) Fleet Staff

·        Dixon (M-12) Maintenance Facility

From the Central Auto Garage to the Roadway Lighting division, from custodians to fleet crews working across various maintenance facilities, these teams do the critical behind-the-scenes work that keeps the Tollway running smoothly and safely. Their success exemplifies what’s possible when safety becomes a standard in getting the job done.

Each division faces their own unique challenges. Roadway Lighting crews work near high-speed traffic in all types of weather and elevated heights. Fleet staff handle complex tools and heavy machinery to repair Tollway vehicles. Custodians perform various functions to ensure the building environments are kept clean. What ties them together is that they all take pride in their work and are focused on getting through each day injury-free.

Helping to make this safety-first mindset second nature are daily safety briefings, regular training sessions and constant peer communication to reinforce that safety is an ongoing commitment.

Across the board, what stands out among these zero-injury teams is a strong sense of trust and accountability. Clear communication, openness to feedback and leadership support have created an environment at the Illinois Tollway where every voice matters and every precaution is worth taking.

Illinois Tollway leadership is taking the time out to recognize and celebrate each team. The Safety Department hit the road to visit the zero-injury teams in person, bringing along congratulatory banners, bagels and juice to toast the success and show that the dedication of these workers to safety is greatly appreciated.

Thanks to everyone who contributes to the culture of safety at the Illinois Tollway!