From the Office of Governor Pat Quinn
QUINCY – September 1, 2009. Governor Pat Quinn was joined by state and local officials at Clat Adams Bicentennial Park in Quincy today to name Illinois 336 the “Thomas A. Oakley Highway.” Oakley has worked for more than 50 years to promote transportation projects that attract and support business investment and produce employment opportunities, and sustain a high quality of life throughout West Central Illinois.
“It is an honor to dedicate IL 336 to Tom Oakley,” said Governor Quinn. “I salute Tom for his devotion to improving transportation in Illinois and promoting economic development in this region.”
“I am very honored by the governor's decision to designate IL 336 from Quincy to Macomb as the Thomas A. Oakley Highway,” said Thomas A. Oakley. “This is truly a tribute to our region. Many people, working together, have made this happen and I am thrilled to receive this honor on their behalf."
The “Thomas A. Oakley Highway” on IL 336 connects to I-172 at U.S. 24 north of Quincy and ends at U.S. 136 west of Macomb. The nearly 60 miles of four-lane highway from Quincy to Macomb was completely opened to traffic October of 2008. The $295 million project provides increased mobility in West Central Illinois and gives motorists a safer commute to the region.
“We are happy to recognize Tom Oakley for his continued commitment to his community and the state of Illinois,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig. “The completion of this project was a major accomplishment and it was with Tom’s drive and vision for this region that helped make this four lane highway reality.”
Three major national highway corridors now cross through the heart of this region, creating a transportation hub that assures a bright economic future for its residents. Tom Oakley has worked with generations of political and transportation leaders at all levels over a span of six decades to make that dream a reality.
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