The Bloomington-Normal metropolitan area has been expanding to the east for some time. The metro area’s comprehensive plan designates continued land development and growth to the east. The East Side Highway will be needed to support this eastern development, planned by the Bloomington, Normal, McLean County, and the public. A road can induce sprawl when not built as part of a comprehensive land development strategy. Carefully coordinated and planned roads are among the most effective means of implementing desired plans for harmonious land use development. This study is designed to coordinate land use and transportation planning, while meeting future mobility needs, minimizing future levels of congestion, and promoting transportation safety within the study area. Adopted comprehensive plans for the area formed the basis for predicting future travel demand requirements and have been integral in this planning process.
Posted in: Purpose and Need