"Through Illinois FIRST, we have been able to reach out to communities across the state and help them improve their quality of life," said Governor Ryan.

"Traffic congestion has been identified as one of the major problems for residents in Lake County," added Ryan. "Through this funding we are able to alleviate a problem that has plagued this area for years."

The project at the intersection of Routes 45 and 120 is ten percent complete. The improvements will include adding through lanes and turn lanes on both Route 45 and Route 120 and storm sewer installation and traffic signal improvements.

The second project is the reconstruction of Route 45 from Illinois Route 137, Buckley Road, to just north of Illinois Route 176, Maple Avenue. This two-lane roadway will be reconstructed and widened to four lanes.

Illinois FIRST, a Fund for Infrastructure, Roads, Schools and Transit, was developed by Governor Ryan to build, repair and upgrade the unmet critical infrastructure needs facing the citizens of Illinois. Included in the $12 billion package is a total of $4.1 billion dollars for the construction and repair of roads, highways and bridges, as well as railroad crossing safety, high-speed rail preparation and air transportation needs. In just one year, Illinois FIRST has increased the state's commitment to new roads and highway repairs by 101 percent.

Another $4.1 billion is being invested in Illinois' deteriorating public transit system, while the state's School Construction Program has been doubled under Illinois FIRST, providing $2.2 billion to help local school districts build new classrooms and upgrade outdated facilities. Also, a $1.6 million quality of life component will allow Illinois FIRST to address essential infrastructure needs such as water and sewage treatment facilities and public safety initiatives.