Endless Route 56 construction? Road test mystery? Here are answers to your transportation questions
It didn’t take long, after a seemingly comprehensive overview of road construction in 2026 went live last month, for my inbox to fill up with questions about projects that weren’t included.
And that’s a good thing because readers drive this transportation column (pun intended), and this week’s version is all about you.
For example, Jerry H. Cizek III of Warrenville appreciated the update but asked “what about Butterfield Road/Route 56 between Finley Road in Downers Grove and Park Boulevard in Glen Ellyn?
“This mess has been ongoing for over two years and little or no updates.”
It’s a little complicated, Illinois Department of Transportation officials said.
The project involves reconstruction of the Butterfield Road and Route 53 intersection along with bridge replacement and pavement improvements bordering Downers Grove, Glen Ellyn and Lombard.
However, delays have resulted from utility issues, IDOT spokesperson Maria Castaneda noted.
“Multiple utilities have or are currently moving their facilities. Their original design for the East Branch of the DuPage River crossing had to be changed and is waiting on permits from outside agencies to complete that work.
“Once that work is completed, then ComEd can proceed with all relocates that conflict,” Castaneda said. “This will need to be completed so that the overall work can continue. At this time, we anticipate the project completion in late 2027, depending on weather and no other conflicts.”
Meanwhile, Jill Ballock of Gurnee had a different query regarding a recent driving test to renew her license.
“In the part where you have to drive in reverse around a corner, the (driver examiner) told me I couldn’t use the (rearview) camera screen for assistance,” Ballock said.
“Why not?” she wondered. “I did make the turn correctly even though it took me longer than using screens. Later a senior friend told me he had asked his (driver examiner) if he could use the screens and the employee said yes.”
Officials with Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias’ office had this response.
“Advancements in automobile technology have undoubtedly made driving safer in recent years, but we stress that drivers shouldn’t be entirely reliant upon it,” they said. “Often times when drivers pull out from alleys, driveways or crowded parking lots, a vehicle’s back up camera is unable to display or detect the oncoming traffic coming from different directions, as opposed to directly behind it.
“It’s imperative that drivers look out both windows and utilize their vehicle’s mirrors, especially when other vehicles are approaching at high speeds.”
Finally, David Diamond of Marengo is curious about the Illinois tollway’s amenities.
“With the removal of numerous oases along the tollway system, are there any plans to build new rest stops that may just feature restrooms without concessions or fuel?” Diamond wondered.
“I have long looked at the Elgin Toll Plaza as a possible conversion to such a use since most of the plaza is disused today.”
Tollway spokesperson Joelle McGinnis noted that “historically, oases have served the needs of tollway customers who are traveling long distances and are looking for an efficient way take a quick break and get food and fuel along the way.
“The only oasis that has been permanently removed is the Des Plaines Oasis,” McGinnis said. “The O’Hare Oasis and Hinsdale Oasis over-the-road food pavilions were removed to accommodate the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294) widening and the fuel stations with restrooms and convenience stores offering food remain operational in those locations. The tollway is actively working on plans for new food pavilions in those two locations.
“At all of our existing locations, the Illinois tollway continues to work with our vendors to ensure that the oases are meeting the needs of our customers.”