John Deere Road Will Expand - CBS4 - WHBF Quad Cities, IL-IA News Weather Sports

John Deere Road Will Expand

By Natalie Zarowny
nzarowny@cbs4qc.com

John Deere road will soon be getting a $47 million makeover.

Illinois governor Pat Quinn came to Moline Wednesday to talk about the project, which will bring more than 600 jobs to the area. Governor Quinn said construction on this major artery is essential for the future.

"It gets really congested and stuff when you're going to Walmart or any of the stores over there," said Elizabeth Kuster, a student at Augustana College.

This plan is aimed at fixing the congestion and other problems.

"This project is going to make this intersection safer," said Ann Schneider, Illinois secretary of transportation.

Phase one will go on bid next June, with construction starting soon after.

The plan includes a new bridge and a pedestrian pathway.

The governor said it'll be a big boost for the economy.

"Public works by investing in roads and bridges we're helping ourselves today and tomorrow by strengthening out economy," said Governor Quinn.

Then comes phase two, and that's when the two extra lanes get added, one on each side.

Moline's mayor said all these changes will be a big help to the city

"My police department spends many, many hours down on John Deere Road, and with these new safety improvements, I'm sure that time will be diminished," said Mayor of Moline, Don Welvaert

Construction won't start for another year, but when it does, the Illinois Department of Transportation said no businesses will need to be relocated, but a few homes will have to move.