Why are Illinois' roads so bad?

A recent front-page Herald article entitled "Roadwork" triggers some observations regarding our travels between northwest suburbia and Florida's gulf coast.

Of all the states traveled --Illinois (I-57 through most of the state), Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida and Alabama -- only Illinois has a speed limit of 65 miles per hour. All others set the upper limit at 70.

Only Illinois has a slower speed limit for trucks, in my judgment a distinct hazard.

Only Illinois has an interstate that is badly in need of repair. In the southern part of the state, one travels over a lengthy section listening to a rhythmic but disconcerting thump, thump, thump as the tires go over cracks across the roadway.

Admittedly it keeps the driver awake. South of Champaign, a long section is pockmarked with patches and patches on patches. Other sections need care, too.

One wonders why Illinois must be so unique.

John Sonderegger

Arlington Heights