Marengo Hampshire Plaza 1965

PROJECT PROFILE Marengo Hampshire Plaza Tollway Project Location: Marengo, Illinois Client: Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Delivery Method: General Contractor

PROJECT OUTCOME Michuda Construction successfully completed the Marengo Hampshire Plaza Tollway project for IDOT in 1965. The project focused on enhancing tollway operations and infrastructure to support increased vehicular traffic, ensuring a seamless flow of toll collection and improving safety for both drivers and tollway personnel.

PROJECT SCOPE As the General Contractor for the IDOT project, Michuda managed the construction and upgrade of toll plaza facilities, including site development, structural enhancements, and mechanical systems. The scope of work encompassed:

• Toll Plaza Construction: Building new tollbooths and collection facilities to accommodate the growing number of vehicles using the tollway, ensuring efficient and secure transactions.

• Structural Upgrades: Reinforcing and expanding existing infrastructure to improve traffic flow and safety at the toll plaza. The upgrades included new concrete approaches, structural steel supports, and reinforced barriers.

• Electrical and Communication Systems: Installation of advanced toll collection systems and communication networks to facilitate automated toll collection and real-time monitoring.

• Traffic Management Systems: Implementation of traffic control measures, including signage, lane dividers, and safety markings, to guide vehicles safely through the toll plaza area.

• Site Development and Landscaping: Enhancements to the surrounding area, including grading, drainage improvements, and landscaping to improve aesthetics and water management.
  

CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS

• Minimizing Traffic Disruption:Challenge: Maintaining traffic flow during construction activities on an active tollway.Solution: Michuda employed phased construction schedules, temporary traffic diversions, and off-peak work hours to minimize disruptions and ensure safety.

• Security and Safety Compliance:Challenge: Meeting stringent safety and security requirements for tollway operations during construction.Solution: Coordination with IDOT and other relevant agencies ensured compliance with safety protocols and provided secure work zones to protect workers and the traveling public.

• Weather Considerations:Challenge: Midwest weather conditions posed challenges to maintaining construction timelines.Solution: The team implemented weather-mitigation strategies, including temporary shelters and de-icing measures, to maintain progress despite inclement weather.
  

LEGACY & IMPACT The Marengo Hampshire Plaza Tollway project improved toll collection efficiency and enhanced safety for motorists, contributing to the overall effectiveness of Illinois' tollway infrastructure. Michuda’s expertise in delivering complex infrastructure projects demonstrated its ability to meet the needs of IDOT and support state transportation goals.