'Strangler' to Bypass: Millburn Bypass Open As Project Nears End

LAKE COUNTY, IL — Motorists can say, "So long, Millburn Strangler" thanks to the new Millburn Bypass in north-central Lake County. According to a news release from Lake County Division of Transportation, local officials came together Tuesday to celebrate the recent opening of the US Route 45 Millburn Bypass, created to improve traffic on Route 45 from IL 132 to IL 173.

This $31 million project encompassing more than 25 years of discussion, planning and finally, construction work, resulted in a bypass of the Millburn Historic District, addressing one of the most congested traffic spots the county, hence its nickname “The Millburn Strangler,” according to the news release.

Project highlights include:

• Grass Lake Road was realigned to the south, eliminating the existing offset “T” intersections through the Millburn Historic District.
• A raised center median along US 45 enhances safety and provides water quality benefits, along with green space for plants and trees.
• The bypass accommodates a bike path on the west side and sidewalks on the east side.
• Numerous federal, state, and local organizations worked together over a 25-year span.

According to the news release, the bypass is one of many large transportation projects set to improve traffic flow and safety in Lake County. The county is investing more than $500 million in transportation improvements over the next six years.

More: "Millburn Bypass - 25 Years in the Making"