Illiana Expressway cost could top $1B

LOWELL, Ind. (AP) - A new study says it could cost more than $1 billion to build a highway linking Interstate 65 and Interstate 57 south of Chicago.

The consultant firm's report suggests three corridors through the southern part of northwestern Indiana's Lake County into Illinois for an eight-lane, 25-mile-long Illiana Expressway.

The Times of Munster reports the study commissioned by the Indiana and Illinois state governments estimates the highway's costs would mean tolls about double any currently charged in the area.

Indiana state Sen. Sue Landske of Cedar Lake says while many residents in the rural area have opposed the highway's construction, an alternate route to congested I-80/94 in northern Lake County is needed.

The report goes to an Indiana legislative committee that is considering the feasibility of building the highway.