Environmental

New Law Paves Way for IDOT to Use Asphalt Made From Recycled Shingles, Saves More Than $8 Million Annually


CHICAGO–(ENEWSPF)–August 12, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today signed legislation that continues his commitment to making state government greener and more efficient. The new law allows the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to begin using asphalt made from recycled roofing shingles. It also allows businesses to increase the amount of shingles used in asphalt production and requires IDOT to maximize the use of recycled materials in construction projects, saving the state more than $8 million annually.

“In the midst of one of the busiest construction seasons in state history, we must continue to embrace green practices in building our roads,” Governor Quinn said. “This law will keep more shingles out of landfills, benefit the environment and save the state millions of dollars by expanding our use of recycled materials.”

House Bill 1326, sponsored by Rep. Daniel V. Beiser (D-Alton) and Sen. Dave Koehler (D-Peoria), allows IDOT to use asphalt made with materials from recycling facilities that process shingles, following to regulations established by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. The law also directs IDOT to use recycled materials in its projects as much as possible, saving more than an estimated $8 million annually. The agency must report the results of those efforts to the Illinois House and Senate Transportation Committees each year.

“Under Governor Quinn’s leadership, the expanded use of recycled asphalt in roadway pavements is just the latest green initiative the Illinois Department of Transportation has undertaken,” said Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann L. Schneider. “Although motorists will not notice the difference, this new law is good for the environment and ultimately will save money.”

The new law also allows businesses that specialize in waste collection from construction and demolition sites to double the amount of shingles they can provide to recycling facilities for use later in the production of asphalt.

Source: illinois.gov


ARCHIVES