East Central Reporter

Rep. Halbrook presented legislation in the Illinois House Transportation-Regulation, Roads and Bridges this week to enhance safety in highway construction zones across the state. Halbrook, alongside Effingham County Sheriff Paul Kuhns, discussed House Bill 5422 in the committee, aiming to improve information sharing between various stakeholders involved in construction projects to prevent tragedies like the one near Teutopolis last September.

"Traveling through an active construction zone is always going to involve some risk, but we can work together to minimize the chance of disastrous, fatal accidents," said Halbrook. He emphasized the importance of ensuring local leaders, law enforcement officials, and medical professionals are informed about details and timelines of highway construction projects near their communities.

Regarding the tragic incident in September 2023 near Teutopolis, where five individuals lost their lives in a construction zone crash involving a semi-truck carrying anhydrous ammonia, Sheriff Kuhns shared insights on the increased collaboration with IDOT. "We did have communication with IDOT, but this accident shifted our focus. We are having meetings now on a more regular basis, and I feel we are more a part of the team. I want the same for other local representatives," Kuhns expressed to committee members.