IDOT's roots can be traced back over a century. For as long as there have been cars, highways, and air traffic, there has been an Illinois transportation agency. The rich history of our department spreads across the entire state. From massive bridges spanning the Mississippi or Illinois Rivers to winding roads eloquently carved into limestone bluffs. And, from two-lane roads tracing through rural corn and soybean fields to dirt and grass landing strips to the steel and concrete jungle of O’Hare International Airport, and on every mile of interstate and railroad that made Illinois what it is today, the mark of an Illinois transportation agency can be seen and felt.

Over the past century, Illinois businesses, residents, and visiting travelers have seen the steady development of one of the largest and most effective multi-modal transportation systems in the nation including roadways, passenger and freight railroads, transit and commuter services, bikeways, airports, waterways and canals, port districts, and inter-modal facilities. During just the past 50 years, Illinois’ geographical location near the center of the nation and the diversity of statewide transportation options have made the Illinois multi-modal network a keystone and a vital hub for national and regional travel and freight movement.

Thanks to IDOT, our roads are safer in the winter. Pre-treating roads before the wintery weather and working hard to clear them after the fact.