Des Plaines mayor appointed to O'Hare bypass council

Des Plaines Mayor Marty Moylan was recently appointed by Gov. Pat Quinn to serve on an advisory council to discuss financing of the Elgin-O'Hare Western Bypass Project.

The Elgin-O'Hare Western Bypass would run along the western part of O'Hare Airport and connect with I-90 to the north, near Des Plaines, and to the Tri-State Tollway to the south, near Franklin Park.

The bypass development comes as Des Plaines is gearing up for the opening of the region's first casino in summer 2011 on roughly 20 acres fronting the I-294 off Des Plaines River Road and Devon Avenue.

Aside from construction jobs, the bypass project is expected to generate opportunities for the development of Des Plaines' industrial and commercial corridors. Moylan said the project will be a huge economic boost for international business and tourism for the region.

“I think the direct connection from O'Hare will be an advantage for our casino, as well as all Des Plaines businesses, Moylan said. “The time and magnitude of this project is significant in that it is about jobs … 80,000 long- and short-term jobs are anticipated to be created as a result of this development.

“I think we will see the suburbs finally getting their fair share of those markets when this roadway is completed, he added. “Every community along the corridor will benefit.

The advisory council will act as a sounding board for the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority as the state explores potential financial structures and funding sources for the project, estimated to cost $3.6 billion.

The council also will focus on jobs growth, freight movement, transit features, work force diversity, bike and pedestrian enhancements and green technologies. Its first report to the governor is expected next spring.