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Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann Schneider recently unveiled the state’s first multi-modal transportation improvement program, which combines the state’s multi-year, $9.2 billion highway program with multi-year programs for rail, public transportation and aeronautics.

“We recognize that building a healthy, vibrant transportation network to develop and function properly through the 21st Century means addressing the needs of our world-class highways, airports, railroads and public transportation systems as one interconnected system,” said Schneider in a prepared statement.

The new approach surpasses prior multi-modal planning efforts by identifying and improving physical connections and logistical links among transportation modes, she said. Ultimately, Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) officials hope to more effectively incorporate federal, regional and local transportation plans with the state’s transportation plan through 2050 or later, IDOT officials said.