Responsive, mobile-friendly IDOT site keeps travelers informed

SPRINGFIELD — As the official start of winter approaches, the Illinois Department of Transportation reminds travelers to visit and bookmark the newly redesigned GettingAroundIllinois.com for continually updated information on road conditions.

“The new-and-improved GettingAroundIllinois.com is a great resource any time of the year, but especially during winter when road conditions can quickly change,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Randy Blankenhorn. “Illinois has the third-largest highway system in the nation, so we know it is important to provide the public with a convenient way to access information they know they can trust.”

Available on your computer or mobile device, the website includes the ability to identify and zoom in to a location, travel route or destination. Road conditions are recorded by IDOT plow drivers out in the field and relayed through GettingAroundIllinois.com through a cloud-based system.

The site’s winter road conditions map averages more than 2 million visitors during snow-and-ice season. Recent updates to this map include more detailed reports of snow coverage and a color scheme that aligns with map technology used by surrounding states, creating a more seamless travel experience for motorists.

“Visit GettingAroundIllinois.com before making the decision to drive this winter,” Secretary Blankenhorn said. “By planning ahead before every trip and practicing safe driving habits on the road, we can make this the safest winter yet.”

State Troopers to Strictly Enforce DUI, Speeding, Seatbelt, and Distracted Driving

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois State Police (ISP) Director Leo P. Schmitz is reminding motorists to take the necessary safety precautions to prevent senseless tragedies during the upcoming Christmas and New Year season. ISP will be working to reduce fatal crashes and arrest impaired drivers.

The ISP will be doing their part in keeping the roadways safe for those traveling through the state. The ISP will be strictly enforcing the four most common causes of fatal traffic crashes. “The Fatal Four” includes: DUI, Speeding, Seat Belt, and Distracted Driving.

You can do your part to make travel safe this holiday season. If you are going to be at an event with alcohol, please make sure you designate a driver. Keep your eyes on the road away from cell phones, “Give Them Distance” when approaching flashing lights on the shoulder, watch your speed and buckle up every trip.

“DUI is one of the most preventable factors in holiday fatal traffic crashes,” stated Illinois State Police Director Leo P. Schmitz. “Throughout the holidays, the ISP will conduct extra patrols and roadside safety checks with an emphasis on removing impaired drivers. Our goal is to make sure all Illinois motorists travel safely, with no tragedies this season. Remember, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.”

We are confident that voluntary compliance of Illinois traffic laws can lead to a safe and enjoyable holiday season for everyone.

SPRINGFIELD – Taxpayers wishing to participate in Illinois’ income tax credit scholarship program, Invest in Kids, on January 2nd are strongly encouraged to register for a free MyTax Illinois account today.

The Invest in Kids (IIK) application process for taxpayers seeking to make a qualified contribution is only available online through MyTax Illinois.  Completion of MyTax Illinois registration requires security authentication via mail, so applicants should allow 7-10 days to complete setup of their MyTax Illinois account.

“We cannot stress it enough, if you do not have a MyTax Illinois account and want to participate in Invest in Kids on its opening day, don’t delay in setting one up,” said Connie Beard, Illinois Department of Revenue Director.  “It’s the only way to ensure you will be on the ground floor when this new program opens.”

Beginning January 2, 2018, MyTax Illinois will begin accepting applications from individuals and businesses who wish to obtain an income tax credit equal to 75% of their approved contribution.   To apply, individuals and businesses must report their intention to make an authorized contribution to an approved Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO).  The SGOs, in turn, provide scholarships for eligible Illinois students to attend qualified non-public schools in Illinois.  The application process ensures equal access to the $75 million in IIK tax credits available each year.

For more information on the IIK income tax credits, including bulletins, FAQs, and a list of approved SGO’s, please visit Investinkids.illinois.gov.  A YouTube video is available on the website to assist taxpayers with MyTax Illinois registration. Questions may be emailed to: REV.PRD@illinois.gov.