Marni Pyke

1 week ago | dailyherald.com | Marni Pyke

The costs of awarding a major construction contract to the wrong company are adding up for the Illinois tollway. The agency settled a lawsuit with Judlau Construction in 2024, paying about $10 million in damages after abruptly canceling its contract to reconfigure the southbound side of the I-88/I-290 interchange. Then in April, the board approved a $16.5 million change order for replacement contractor, Walsh Construction Co., to expedite the delayed project.

1 week ago | dailyherald.com | Marni Pyke

Illinois leaders remembered former Gov. George Ryan as a gruff, old-school politician who made surprising pivots, was courageous, compassionate, and had serious flaws. The Republican from Kankakee, who also served as secretary of state, gained both accolades and criticism during his tenure as governor from 1999 to 2003. “He was an old-school political leader. Effective (and) got things done. Gruff outside but soft heart inside,” said former Republican Sen. Kirk Dillard of Hinsdale.

1 week ago | dailyherald.com | Marni Pyke

Former Gov. George Ryan File Former Gov. George Ryan has died at age 91, officials said. He served as governor from 1999 to 2003. The longtime Republican leader, who also served as secretary of state, gained both accolades and criticism during his tenure. Ryan put a moratorium on executions in Illinois but also faced scandal over corruption at DMVs. “I join the many Illinoisans who are remembering the contributions that Gov.

2 weeks ago | dailyherald.com | Marni Pyke

Transportation Security Officer Nate Body checks a passenger’s ID Wednesday at O'Hare International Airport. The REAL ID requirement for domestic travelers begins May 7. Brian Hill/[email protected] It’s not a drill — the federal government will begin enforcing REAL ID at airports on May 7, U.S. Transportation Security Administration officials reminded travelers Wednesday. But there is some wiggle room, authorities noted during a briefing at O’Hare International Airport.

2 weeks ago | dailyherald.com | Marni Pyke

IDOT crews are digging into a major rehab of Route 53 between Lake-Cook Road and Route 62 in northwest Cook County. Joe Lewnard/[email protected] Nearly 129,000 cars and trucks drive on Route 53 near Kirchoff Road on average each day, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation. That’s why a major redo of Route 53 this year is bound to cause angst for commuters in the Northwest suburbs. Here’s five things you need to know about the project. • What’s happening?