Frequently Asked Questions

What is Context Sensitive Solutions?
Context Sensitive Solutions is an interdisciplinary approach to projects that seeks effective, multi-modal transportation solutions by working with stakeholders to develop, build and maintain cost effective transportation facilities which fit into the project's surroundings - its "context". While this definition may seem complicated, the most important facet to the public should be that IDOT will be trying to work with the community as a whole to develop a solution for the US Route 136 Realignment Study. For more information on IDOT's Context Sensitive Solutions guidelines, please visit the IDOT webpage for CSS. IDOT's goal for the US Route 136 Realignment Study project is to increase safety and mobility for the traveling public, while seeking to preserve and enhance the scenic, economic, historic, and environmental resources along the corridor for the local community. To gain the community's input, IDOT has formed a Community Advisory Group (CAG). The CAG is made up of representatives of the Project Stakeholders and provides input on the project's potential solutions.

What is a stakeholder?
Community stakeholders are individuals or organizations/groups with a stake, an interest, or an investment in a community issue or outcome. Their interest may stem from a professional or personal interest in an issue or may result from a commitment to achieve some outcome. A first step in achieving meaningful public involvement in project development involves identifying the individuals and organizations/groups likely to be affected by the project, those who have a "stake" in its outcome. For the US Route 136 Realignment Study, stakeholders include members from the local community, businesses, local officials, transportation service providers and others who will serve to represent the community's ideas, concerns and values and will advise IDOT throughout the planning study. Stakeholders are people likely to support the project as well as those likely to oppose it. The views and feedback of stakeholders are important to receive and consider during a project to ensure a comprehensive solution is developed.

Who is the US Route 136 Realignment Advisory Group and what do they do?
The CAG formed for the US Route 136 Realignment Study project includes representatives from business groups, residents, churches, the municipalities, and other civic organizations with an interest the project. The CAG meets with the Project Study Group during the project development process to provide input on the issues that are important to the community and assist the Project Study Group in identifying, developing and evaluating alternative solutions, and then selecting a preferred alternative.

How can I get involved?
There are two public meetings and one public hearing planned for the US Route 136 Realignment Study. The first public meeting was held on January 6, 2011. The purpose of the first meeting is to introduce the project to the community and seek members for the Advisory Group. Additional public meetings will be held at a later date. Project information will be displayed at these meetings, Project Study Group representatives will be available to answer questions and discuss project details, and comment forms will be available to submit comments.

What is the scope of this project?
IDOT’s scope for this project to improve US Route 136 is to evaluate the safety and environmental impacts of the roadway from the Mississippi River to Main Street in Hamilton, Illinois. This study will determine the best alternative for raising the grade and existing structures to prevent flooding and increase safety for all roadway users throughout the study corridor. Since improvements to this roadway facility will affect the community, public input is vital.

Is this project funded and when could construction begin?
Yes, all stages of the project is funded under IDOT’s 2024-2029 multi-year plan, including construction.  It is likely that construction could begin during the later years of the multi-year plan.

How can I keep informed on the study’s progress?
The best way to keep updated is to check this web site. The web site will evolve and updates will become more frequent as the project moves forward.