In the early 1990s, Randall Road was designated as a Strategic Regional Arterial (SRA). SRAs are a network of highways designed to accommodate long distance regional traffic, to complement a region’s major transit and highway facilities, and to supplement the freeway system. Randall Road is a primary north-south arterial in southern McHenry County that many residents use for Interstate 90 (I-90) access through Kane County since McHenry County does not have direct access to I-90. Numerous new developments along the Randall Road corridor contributed to congested traffic conditions. McHenry County Division of Transportation recognized these conditions and took steps to address the situation.
The Randall Road Improvements Study consisted of a Phase I Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Study for Randall Road between County Line Road and Ackman Road. The project was initiated by McHenry County in the spring of 2007. The purpose of the project was to identify transportation system improvements that would enhance mobility and local access while addressing safety issues, community values, and environmental impacts within the study area. The project was needed to improve regional mobility, improve local access/bicycle mobility, enhance local access/local system deficiencies, accommodate community values/land use planning goals and address safety concerns.
McHenry County prepared the Phase I Study that included the identification of the various needs for the project (safety, traffic, pedestrian, etc.), evaluation of alternatives (based on needs and environmental impacts), and development of the preferred improvements which would be recommended for further study in the Phase II of the project, Design.
The project for Randall Road began by considering over 30 different options. Through evaluation and public involvement, the options were narrowed down or combined into 4 alternatives that were studied in greater detail. The final four alternatives included 2 different interchange designs specifically for the Algonquin Road intersection, adding additional lanes (conventional) and a continuous flow (innovative) design for the Algonquin Road/Randall Road intersection.
This Phase I Study developed a comprehensive solution addressing the communities’ goals and needs. As funding for the construction of the Randall Road project was limited, additional funding was needed for the Preferred Alternative to be carried forward through design and construction. A Strategic Funding Plan was developed as part of this study to identify and evaluate potential funding sources for future phases of the project.
Phase I Key Exhibits:
Continuous Flow Intersection (Randall Road and Algonquin Road)
