Date: July 23, 2025
Five major infrastructure projects in the Champaign-Urbana area are set to receive a combined investment of nearly $298.2 million, aimed at enhancing safety, mobility, and job creation throughout the region.
"Through Rebuild Illinois, we are making good on our promise to restore and transform our state’s infrastructure while promoting economic growth," said Governor J.B. Pritzker. "This summer, IDOT will continue to build on years of progress by undertaking construction projects that will create safer roads and bridges and provide jobs across the state. Through these projects, we are demonstrating what government is supposed to do and that’s investing in the people and communities we serve."
Among the five major projects, one is scheduled for completion in 2025, with the remaining four expected to wrap up in 2026.
Key projects include the Interstate 57/74 interchange reconstruction, which began in 2021 and is slated for completion by this winter, and the US 45 resurfacing from Springfield Avenue to Curtis Road, anticipated to finish in fall 2026. Read more.
Date: July 23, 2025
An Illinois Republican lawmaker has filed a bill to ban the use of renewable energy components made by foreign adversaries in any Illinois energy projects.
Senate Deputy Minority Leader Sue Rezin told WAND News her plan could protect the state's energy grid and national security. The Morris Republican said she is concerned about security risks tied to inverters, batteries and other components of solar panels and wind turbines.
A recent Reuters investigation found hidden communication devices in solar panel inverters and batteries manufactured in China. Although, Reuters has not named the company involved.
"In November of 2024, a remote disabling of Chinese manufactured inverters disrupted systems in the US and other countries," Rezin said. "Many countries are moving to pass legislation. Hopefully our country will, as well as the state of Illinois, to protect us."
Rezin's proposal could create procurement standards and increase transparency requirements for energy infrastructure connected to the grid. She said this change could allow Illinois to have more information from vendors about the origin and capabilities of their technology. Read more.
Date: July 23, 2025
NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. has taken a major step toward building a small nuclear reactor on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) campus, Chicago Construction News reports.
The company announced it has hired global engineering firm AECOM to help with early planning and site work for its KRONOS MMR™, a compact nuclear reactor designed to deliver clean energy in remote or specialized settings.
Initial work at the UIUC site will include environmental studies, technical assessments, and preparation for a permit application to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
“This milestone marks a pivotal step in our development roadmap,” said James Walker, CEO of NANO Nuclear. “We’re not just talking about future energy — we’re actively building it.”
NANO Nuclear is aiming to make UIUC one of the first US university campuses to host a licensed microreactor. If approved and built, the project would support research, education, and demonstration of small-scale nuclear energy in a real-world setting. Read more.