New I-355 extension open for business

Not a single horn or noisy muffler.

No trucks coughing up exhaust. No congestion.

But on the eve of the official opening of the Veterans Memorial Tollway, the pristine pavement welcomed its first customers.

Roughly 7,000 bikers of all ages quietly glided along the new lanes and ramps of the multi-lane I-355 South extension exactly 24 hours before the 12.5-mile stretch was to be unveiled to drivers traveling south of Boughton Road.

Executive Illinois Tollway Director Brian McPartlin said it felt fantastic to be walking around on the brand new stretch of I-355 Sunday morning.

"This is a long-awaited dream for a lot of people," he said Sunday.

The $730 million slab of concrete, which runs from I-80 in New Lenox north to I-55 in Bolingbrook is set to open Monday to 54,000 daily commuters.

Tollway officials said the extension is expected to cut motorists' commute times by 20 percent and is sure to expand the pace of development along the thoroughfare.

In total, more than 10,000 people celebrated the opening of Veterans Memorial Tollway Sunday, not only by riding but also by walking and running in a 5K. There was also a dedication ceremony, even in the 40-degree weather.

About 10,000 veterans were invited in advance to participate in the opening.

Tom McDole of Sugar Grove couldn't wipe the smile off his face while getting ready to run the 5K race with his daughter, Kristine Wallace, 24, of Yorkville.

"I think this is a pretty cool thing for Veterans Day," he said.

McDole was especially interested in the festivities because his 33-year-old son, Tommy McDole, was formerly in the Navy.

"I just want to honor him and all the other men and women who have served in our armed forces," he said.

Jon and Carole Gassett of Lisle were in the first batch of bikers who rode a 20-mile course along the highway.

"It's such a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to do this," Carole Gassett said. "I'm just very proud that we finished."

Jon Gassett agreed. He said the cold air was brutal and going up hills was rough, but still, the experience was very cool.

"We were cold, but it felt so good to finish it," he said.

Carole Gassett said she'll definitely be utilizing the new highway.

"My sister lives in Mokena," she said, "so I'm just excited that I'm going to be able to benefit from this."