Route 53 extension gets some attention from tollway

Lake County officials will present a united front Thursday as the decades-old idea to extend Route 53 north from Lake-Cook Road resurfaces as a topic of discussion.

Whether more talk will ultimately translate into action is uncertain. But the Illinois Toll Highway Authority's interest in revisiting the controversial plan gives Lake County leaders another chance to show support.

County board Chairman Suzi Schmidt will join other board members, administrators and transportation staff in Downers Grove where tollway staffers are scheduled to give a public presentation on the Route 53 extension and Route 120 bypass projects.

The tollway board meeting and presentation begin at 10 a.m. at the agency's headquarters, 2700 Ogden Ave.

"I don't know if they're even interested in building it or not," Schmidt said. "We're definitely going and making our pitch of how important this is."

The two Lake County projects originally were considered as a single plan, with an improved Route 120 as the top of the "T" of an extended Route 53. Lake County and communities along Route 120 are pursuing that portion, which includes a bypass of Grayslake, as a stand-alone project.

In a letter to the county board about two weeks ago, Kristi Lafluer, the newly appointed tollway executive director, said the agency has restarted its planning and review process and is updating the analysis of several projects.

This new look will better reflect today's needs and economies, according to Lafluer, and identify projects that would significantly reduce traffic congestion, expand economic opportunities and benefit the region.

The review also would identify costs, gauge local and regional support and determine timelines and financing options for projects.

But it is one of many on the list that have been under review by the tollway since January, as there are four new board members. Others that have been discussed to date include the Tri-State Tollway/Interstate 57 interchange and the Elgin-O'Hare Expressway.

The intent is to give the tollway board a better understanding of various projects and provide for public input. No official action will be taken Thursday.

Lake County officials contend the consensus to build the project has been strong for some time.

Schmidt noted that the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning has recommended the Route 53/120 project in its 2040 comprehensive regional plan.

"Whenever we have an opportunity we go and speak," she said of the projects.