Rapid growth and increased traffic demands led Kane County, IL, to evaluate options for a new, second crossing over the Fox River. As part of the planning process, Benesch investigated multiple options for the County, of which the new, $148 million Stearns Road Corridor alternative was chosen. Benesch also provided design and corridor construction management services.
The project, which was the largest undertaken in the County at the time of its construction, included: five miles of new roadway; eight highway bridges including the new Fox River crossing; two railroad bridges; four pedestrian bridges; trail interconnections; new multi-use path; intersection improvements; 10,000 LF of storm sewer; and much more.
The project also included an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), public involvement, Context Sensitive Solutions, a location drainage study and preparation of a design study report. Considerable coordination with the Illinois Department of Transportation, as well as numerous local, state, federal, environmental and rail agencies, was also required. Additional project highlights include:
- 216 acres of procured green space
- Hundreds of new tree and shrub plantings
- Innovative, staged construction plan for four separate contracts
- Corridor-wide material QA inspection
- A 65-acre Wetland Restoration Site to protect water quality during construction
- 35 acres for a new groundwater recharge protection facility
- Soil erosion and sediment control, including dust control watering and silt fencing
- Temporary pumping basins and sealed storm sewers
- Restored savannahs
- Permeable pavement driveways
- Endangered species protections (slippershell mussels and River Redhorse fish)