With talking to IDOT this morning, I’ve learned a few things. 

1. Flashing lights are a federally funded item and in order to get them installed, IDOT has to submit an application to get approval. 

2. Before getting approval, IDOT has to follow their due process by trying low cost changes first. This would be things like the “crossing traffic does not stop” signs you now see out there, doubling the stop signs, and putting red reflective tape around the stop signs and the stop sign poles. 
     -They Also are still waiting on 2024’s accident data to be fully uploaded into their database (hopefully by June/July). And with Riley’s accident being fatal- that may help my case with a need for more safety precautions. 

3. Generally, if the community supports the need for a flashing light, the city can submit a permit to request a flashing light at the desired location. With this intersection being just outside of Streator’s City Limits, I’m not sure if Streator or Kangley would have more control over a request like that, but I know the more support of this cause shown, the more likely we are to get something done!! 

I am extremely grateful and appreciative of Junior from the IDOT office in Ottawa. Throughout this process, he has answered every one of my questions. Even when I had 30 questions Lined up to ask- he took the time to listen, answer, and more importantly EXPLAIN the why or why nots. He understands this is an important issue and he’s doing his part behind the scenes to see what can be done. I couldn’t thank him enough. 

LaSalle County Highway Offices have finallyy reached out to me. Conversations within the office are happening about rumble strips being put down. It is also being brought up and discussed in the office to get flashing yellow lights installed on the “STOP AHEAD” signs to raise awareness of the upxing intersection. 

Of course I’m going to keep fighting! I just wanted to give an update on how things are going for Riley’s Safety Project. 

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