The Will County Public Works and Transportation Committee has approved contracts for two significant infrastructure maintenance projects: LED traffic signal upgrades and guardrail maintenance across the county.

A contract for $296,188 was awarded to H&H Electric Company for countywide LED signal module replacement. This project involves upgrading aging LED traffic signal lights that have reached the end of their expected lifespan.

County Engineer Jeff Ronaldson explained that the typical warranty for LED modules is around 10 years, after which they need to be refreshed. When questioned about the scope, Ronaldson estimated the county manages between 55 and 65 traffic signal intersections, with that number growing as the county takes jurisdiction of more signals.

The committee also approved a $299,950 contract to Northern Contracting Inc. for countywide guardrail maintenance at 45 locations throughout Will County.

Ronaldson explained that guardrails are repaired or replaced when they present genuine safety issues, particularly damaged end sections which are critical impact points. The two-year contract covers the entire county system, allowing crews to be called out as needed to address guardrail damage.

Both projects will be funded through motor fuel tax funds, with the committee approving $325,000 for the LED signal replacement and $330,000 for the guardrail maintenance.