SPRINGFIELD – Local governments will not compromise driver or pedestrian safety in order to accommodate large trucks on non-designated highways thanks to a new law advocated for by State Senator Mike Simmons.

“Widening intersections to accommodate larger trucks takes away space that can be used for bike lanes, pedestrian walkways and green space,” Simmons said (D-Chicago). “This law will ensure these bike lanes, walkways and open spaces will remain available to community residents to use and enjoy.”

The new law provides that an agency or local government will not be required to design, construct, widen or alter a non-designated highway to accommodate trucks between 55 and 65 feet in length. Additionally, a local government will be required to report to the Illinois Department of Transportation any limitations that prohibit the operation of vehicles on non-designated highways and any non-designated highway that is not designed or constructed after Jan. 1, 2023 to accommodate trucks between 55 and 65 feet in length.

“Highway construction can be time-consuming, dangerous and significantly impact traffic flow,” Simmons said. “This law will allow local governments to avoid such a big undertaking by not requiring them to change their non-designated highways to accommodate larger trucks and vehicles.”

Senate Bill 2278 was signed into law on Friday and goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2024.