Bridgeview, Illinois - Renewing his commitment to improve living conditions in Illinois, Sen. Martin Sandoval Chairmanof the Illinois Senate Transportation Committee joined U.S. Rep. Dan Lipinski and U.S. House Transportation Committee Chairman Jim Oberstaras well as other various local leaders in moving forward two essential infrastructure projects slated for the Southwest Side of Chicago and several neighboring suburbs: "The Central Avenue Bypass" and the "CREATE Rail Modernization Program". Chairman Sandoval fully supports the plan, because both projects could authorized record levels of funding to improve infrastructure in the state thus creating 10,000 jobs this coming summer under the Federal Stimulus Package.

"We take federal funding for granted in Illinois. As Congress begins consideration of $500 billion transportation funding bill, we need to be determined to work together so this important piece of legislation is swiftly approved in Capitol Hill," said Chairman Sandoval.

"I look forward to working closely with Chairman Oberstar and Chairman Sandoval as we write this vital legislation. We have a great opportunity in this funding bill to provide money for not only these projects, but other local road improvements and mass transit upgrades." said Congressman Lipinski.

U.S. House Transportation Committee Chairman Jim Oberstar will lead Congress in writing the $500 billion Highway and Transit Funding Bill. The Central Avenue Bypass will connect that thoroughfare between 65th and 73rd. streets, while the "CREATE Rail Modernization Plan" will include the construction of several local railroad underpasses. These projects will help alleviate congestion along Cicero and Harlem Avenues, aid economic development, boost commuter access to Midway Airport and link major highways.          
 
"This is the template for a massive improvement plan in the Midwest. 70 percent of the products arriving everyday for distribution in the U. S. move through Chicago. Such is the importance of this project," said Chairman Oberstar. Phase one of these projects is scheduled to be completed by 2010. Phases 2 and 3 are contingent upon getting the proper federal funding.                                                                           

The Transportation Roundtable Forum was also attended by several local mayors, IDOT Secretary Gary Hannig and Illinois Senator Lou Viverito (D-11).  
Chairman Sandoval represents 250,000 residents of the 12th Legislative District that includes the Southwest Side of Chicago, the Town of Cicero, the Village of Stickney and the City of Berwyn.