The Illinois Tollway announced on March 15 that it is preparing for a winter storm expected to bring sleet and snow to the region, urging drivers to slow down, remain alert, and use caution during overnight travel and Monday morning commutes.
The announcement matters as the approaching storm could create hazardous driving conditions across the 294-mile Tollway system in Northern Illinois. The agency is taking steps to keep roads clear and assist motorists who may become stranded or face vehicle issues due to the weather.
According to the Illinois Tollway, its full fleet of 196 plows will be deployed to clear roads and spread salt and brine solution as de-icing materials. The Snow Operations Center has been activated to manage the response, with more than 200 staff and supervisors working alternating shifts throughout the storm. “Our crews will be working throughout this storm to keep our roads clear and safe so our customers can safely complete their travels,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse. “Tollway plows are using a brine solution along with road salt to help prevent ice from sticking to the pavement, melt ice more effectively at lower temperatures and better protect the environment by reducing the amount of salt needed during storms. We’re asking our customers to help us protect them by reducing their speed, steering clear of other vehicles and staying alert for changing pavement conditions and weather conditions.”
Drivers needing assistance are advised to activate hazard lights, dial *999 for roadside help, stay inside their vehicles until aid arrives, and note their location details such as roadway name, direction of travel, and nearest milepost or crossroad. For property damage-only crashes, drivers should continue driving if possible and file an online crash report with Illinois State Police.
The agency also reminds motorists about Illinois’ “Move Over Law,” which requires changing lanes or slowing down when passing any vehicle on the roadside with hazard lights activated or any emergency vehicle displaying flashing lights. Drivers are cautioned when passing snowplows that may work in tandem at slower speeds than posted limits.
The Illinois Tollway operates without state or federal funding for maintenance or operations. It maintains five major tollways across twelve counties in Northern Illinois: Reagan Memorial (I-88), Veterans Memorial (I-355), Jane Addams Memorial (I-90), Tri-State (I-94/I-294/I-80), and Route 390.
