Civiltech was honored to have our client, Illinois Tollway, and project, IL Route 47 and Reagan Memorial Tollway (I-88) Interchange recognized with an Honor Award as part of the ACEC Illinois 2021 Engineering Excellence Awards. The virtual event was held on Thursday, April 8, 2021, with six Civiltech staff in attendance.

Civiltech had provided Phase II design engineering for this innovative pilot project, which was built by Curran Contracting, Inc., and construction was substantially complete in late 2019.

The Tollway had initiated the idea of using this project as a 3D deliverables pilot project to observe and analyze the process, identify challenges, and determine changes to policy or approach that may be needed to more fully implement 3D deliverables in the future. The Tollway was familiar with Civiltech’s 3D modeling capabilities and chose this project for the initiative.

The scope of the pilot project included completing the I-88 and Il Route 47 Interchange design based on a recently completed Phase I study. The improvements included reconstruction of two existing ramps, construction of three new ramps, two toll plazas, reconstruction of Il Route 47 and bridge modifications. The bridge modifications included raised median removal, expansion joint reconstruction, slope wall modification with a retaining wall, and bridge deck overlay. Civiltech’s scope of work included ramp and roadway design, bridge design, drainage, signage, pavement markings, project management, and overall project coordination with subconsultants and other ongoing mainline resurfacing work. Civiltech provided a 3D model was included as part of the contract documents.

ACEC Illinois put on an entertaining gala despite being virtual. Participants received a box of wine-themed goodies donated by ACEC member firms – including Civiltech’s engraved wine topper! The program included presentations by ACEC leaders and regional government representatives, and an entertaining video presentation of the projects.