It’s past time to upgrade Route 20

Rebuild Illinois has $33.8 billion earmarked for Illinois roads and bridges. US Highway 20 in northwest Illinois needs to be on this list.

US 20 is the longest US highway in the United States, running from Boston to the Pacific Ocean, but through northwest Illinois it is some of the worst two-lane roadway anywhere. There is decades-old pavement with layer upon layer of patches, areas with no shoulders or guardrails. It is a very dangerous and heavily traveled road.

Why is it that when US 20 crosses into Iowa it becomes a four-lane divided highway across the state? Why is it that we have seldom used backroads with brand-new pavement?

It’s time to rebuild US Highway 20.

Jack Gatto

Galena