US 20 Freeport to Galena (Glacier Shadow Pass)

A regional planning program, whether undertaken because of a proposed highway, a need for jobs locally or for recreation and/or preservation needs, can have implications beyond just any single purpose. A large, regional land use planning process touches all aspects of life and livelihood in an area. Carried out properly, it characterizes and accommodates all regional needs. It can fashion a future with a purpose.

To further encourage all the varied interests that will be part of the highway planning project to focus on its regionwide economic, social and environmental implications, IDOT has developed a theme for the corridor. It is one that draws on the unique and beautiful natural surroundings in Stephenson and Jo Daviess Counties.

From the land and its physical qualities grow the lifestyles and livelihoods of the people dwelling there. From it also grows a sense that a community’s or region’s destiny lies in nurturing the land and protecting its offerings. Ancient peoples who lived very close to the land were no more bound to it’s care than we are today. As always, tomorrow depends on wise choices today.

The theme Glacier Shadow Pass captures the past, how the land came to be, and what it may mean for the future of local residents in all of its prismatic facets—agricultural, economic, environmental, recreational and in the relationships that knit these pieces of the human fabric together. It is a departure point setting future agendas that link us to the past.

With the numerous studies and care that will be taken to perform a complete investigation, it will be a number of years before a four-lane freeway could be completely finished in northwest Illinois. During the period of planning and assessment the State of Illinois will continue to make improvements to US Route20 to make it as safe as possible for travelers.

In the meantime the theme, Glacier Shadow Pass, will help individuals to refocus again and again on the value of the land and its people. It will outlast the construction of a highway and provide an impetus for shared visions, goals and decision-making for years to come.

Special Updated - June 2014

The Illinois Department of Transportation is initiating a funding and financing study for the US 20 corridor. The study is expected to be completed in October of 2014.

Note: IDOT projects typically have three distinct phases. Phase I (or the project Study) consists of developing the project scope, environmental studies and preliminary design of a project. Phase II (Design) consists of refining the design to develop contract plans and land acquisition. Phase III (Construction) consists of the actual construction of the project.

IDOT is currently at the early stages of Phase I for this project. This site will be updated periodically as the project progresses. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) wishes to thank you for your support and patience.