CHICAGO – August 13, 2009. Governor Pat Quinn today appointed public policy and regional planning expert Paula Wolff as chairman of the Illinois Tollway Board of Directors. In addition, Governor Quinn also named Bill Morris, a municipal finance specialist and former Mayor of the City of Waukegan, and Tom Weisner, Mayor of the City of Aurora, as board members of the Illinois Tollway.

“It is my privilege to appoint these three highly ethical, experienced and professional managers to the board of the Illinois Tollway,” said Governor Quinn. “Each will be a strong and steady advocate for everyone who uses and supports our vital tollway system.”

Illinois Tollway Chairman John Mitola voluntarily resigned, citing personal reasons for his departure, after a term of six and a half years. (See attached letter.)

“I thank John for his years of dedication and service, particularly in completing the Open Road Tolling effort. I also wish him the very best,” said Governor Quinn.

Paula Wolff is a senior executive with Chicago Metropolis 2020 and a former president of Governors State University. In addition, Wolff is a civic leader serving on the Governor’s Council of Economic Advisors, the Illinois Courts Commission, and as a trustee at the University of Chicago. (Background Information)

“I thank Governor Quinn for this appointment and am looking forward to working with the Illinois Tollway,” said Wolff.

Morris and Weisner will be replacing board members Betty-Ann Moore and Steven M. Harris, whose terms have expired. Governor Quinn’s appointments will take effect immediately.

The Illinois Tollway maintains and operates 286 miles of interstate tollways in 12 counties in Northern Illinois, including the Reagan Memorial Tollway (I-88), Veterans Memorial Tollway (I-355), the Jane Addams Memorial Tollway (I-90), and the Tri-State Tollway (I-94, I-294, I-80).