Governor Pat Quinn today announced that $32 million from the Illinois Jobs Now! capital program to construct a multi-modal transportation station in downtown Joliet. According to a press release, the new transportation center is expected to create 650 jobs, laying the groundwork for future transit-oriented development in downtown Joliet.

The press release also stated that the new station will separate passenger and freight rail traffic, eliminating the ongoing problem of passengers crossing working freight tracks. All passenger platform and waiting areas will be moved east of the existing three-way intersection of the Burlington Northern Santa Fe, Union Pacific and Rock Island District Line tracks. The project also includes pedestrian tunnels that connect to Pace bus service, inter-city bus service and other forms of ground transportation, and a new 500-space parking lot.