Gia Biagi, the newly appointed acting secretary of the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), has wasted no time in setting ambitious goals for the state's infrastructure projects. In her first few days on the job, Biagi has already toured key areas across Illinois and expressed a strong commitment to speeding up construction efforts, particularly focusing on high-profile projects like the Kennedy Expressway renovation. With a $33 billion transportation budget at her disposal, Biagi is determined to ensure that these projects are completed efficiently while maintaining safety standards. Her experience from leading Chicago’s Transportation Department positions her well to address both urban and rural transportation needs across the state.

Biagi's immediate focus is on accelerating the pace of construction projects, especially those that have faced delays. One such project is the Kennedy Expressway renovation, which has been a source of frustration for commuters. Despite setbacks last year when reopening the reversible lanes took longer than anticipated, Biagi is committed to ensuring that this phase of the project, now entering its third and final year, progresses smoothly. She emphasized the importance of timely completion, acknowledging the broader impact it has on the city's infrastructure and daily life. "We understand the implications for the city as a whole," she stated, adding that her team will closely monitor the project's progress to avoid further delays.

Biagi's appointment comes after a brief hiatus from public service, having stepped down as Chicago’s Transportation Commissioner shortly after Mayor Brandon Johnson took office. Her return to government, however, is driven by a renewed sense of urgency to improve Illinois' transportation infrastructure. During her recent tours of various regions in the state, Biagi highlighted the diverse needs of different communities, noting that each area requires tailored solutions. While IDOT oversees an extensive network of highways, airstrips, and ports, Biagi believes that prioritizing safety remains paramount, regardless of the scale of the project.

In addition to her focus on construction timelines, Biagi also addressed several other pressing issues facing Illinois' transportation system. She indicated that discussions about enforcing speed limits in construction zones are ongoing but did not provide specifics on when cameras might be reintroduced. On the topic of Chicago’s inter-city bus depot, Biagi expressed openness to talks aimed at preserving the facility, which currently operates under a precarious month-to-month lease. Regarding the redesign of North DuSable Lake Shore Drive, she stressed the importance of engaging with community feedback, recognizing the significance of this large-scale project.

Despite potential challenges, including concerns over federal funding, Biagi remains optimistic. She expressed confidence in the Midwest's importance for transportation and hopes that incoming U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy will recognize this. As Biagi awaits approval from the Illinois Senate for her position, her early actions and statements have set a tone of urgency and dedication to improving the state's infrastructure. Her leadership promises to bring much-needed improvements to Illinois' transportation system, benefiting residents across the state.