I-25-2033 (I-294) Asphalt Improvements Flagg Creek to Cermak Rd MP 23.0 to MP 29.5

The Illinois State Toll Highway Authority awarded Contract I-25-2033 to Plote Construction, Inc. for asphalt overlay and pavement marking improvements on the Tri-State Tollway (Interstate 294) in Cook County, Illinois. The project scope encompasses mainline and shoulder surface removal and overlay, ramp and ramp shoulder surface removal and overlay, ramp pavement patching, bike trail and oasis access road repairs, pavement marking improvements in multiple formats including paint, epoxy, and tape, and maintenance of traffic operations. The work location extends from Flagg Creek (Mile Post 23.0) to Cermak Road (Mile Post 29.5), with construction scheduled to commence on or about June 15, 2026. The contract value is $28,691,000.66, with a completion date of November 30, 2029, and includes a two-year renewal option.

The contract was awarded following an open market competitive sealed bidding process, with Plote Construction, Inc. selected as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder among three competing proposals. The contract imposes Disadvantaged Business Enterprise participation goals of 24.3 percent and Veteran-Owned Small Business Program goals of 1.51 percent. Liquidated damages are assessed at $8,000.00 per day for certain non-completion violations and $12,000.00 per day for specific schedule delays. The contract includes prevailing wage requirements in accordance with Illinois Department of Labor standards and compliance with multiple state certifications and special provisions, including Illinois Department of Human Rights registration and IDOT prequalification.