Illinois Tollway Approves $1.79 Billion 2026 Budget With $1.26 Billion in Capital Spending

DOWNERS GROVE — The Illinois Tollway Board of Directors approved a balanced 2026 budget allocating $1.79 billion for maintenance, operations, debt service, and capital investments across the 294-mile system. The plan includes $1.26 billion for capital projects, supporting the Move Illinois and Bridging the Future programs, with major funding for roadway and bridge repairs and the Central Tri-State Tollway, I-490 Tollway, and Elgin O’Hare Western Access projects. Toll revenue, including commercial truck rates, will cover most costs, with no increase for passenger vehicle tolls. The budget also sets aside funding for IT modernization, roadway maintenance, security, and customer service, and the Tollway plans to issue up to $1 billion in bonds to support capital investments.