New District 6 headquarters in Springfield dedicated to James L. Easterly

The new District 6 headquarters in Springfield was named in honor of longtime employee and former Director of Highways James L. Easterly during a dedication ceremony in June. Family, colleagues, elected officials and industry partners gathered at the IDOT headquarters in the Harry R. Hanley Building to remember Easterly’s long legacy at the department.

“It would be difficult to find an employee more widely beloved by his colleagues than James Easterly,” said Secretary Omer Osman. “A mentor to many and a friend to all, Jim used the knowledge gained from years of experience to serve the residents of Illinois with excellence. The dedication of the District 6 headquarters is a reminder of the quality of service to which we all should aspire.” 

The dedication was originally set to take place at the newly remodeled District 6 headquarters, but Mother Nature had other plans. The storm that raged through Springfield the day before left the building without power. Organizers overcame the last-minute misfortune and went with Plan B, shifting the location to the Hanley Auditorium. The room was at capacity and standing room only, with people coming from near and far to honor Easterly.

“Our family could not be more appreciative of this recognition. The James L. Easterly Building is a tremendous way to honor someone who devoted his career to public service and improving the lives of others,” said Easterly’s wife, Gale Easterly. “More important than the name on the building is the work that takes place inside of it. We are humbled that Jim’s legacy continues today through the dedication and commitment of IDOT employees to improving safety and quality of life for all of Illinois.”

Easterly’s daughter Tammie recounted how difficult her father’s decision to retire had been and summed up his affection for IDOT simply: “He bled orange.” 

With many tearful eyes looking on, the family was presented with a photo of the building with a rendering of his name to be placed. The event culminated with the unveiling of the signage that will be installed on the grounds, which the District 6 sign shop had put finishing touches on just that morning.

Originally built in 1990 one block south of the main IDOT headquarters at the Harry R. Hanley Building on Dirksen Parkway, the 68,000-square-foot property was purchased in 2020 with the goal of renovating it to house District 6 staff. With renovations substantially complete, employees began moving into the new workspace this summer.

The move will bring all District 6 office staff together in the same building, making collaboration more efficient and eliminating cross-town trips for in-person meetings. For several decades, District 6 has operated from two locations: 126 E. Ash St. and 1340 N. Ninth St. in the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency complex. A new rail corridor for the Springfield rail consolidation project will cut through the IEPA complex, making a move necessary.