An effort to designate Obama's birthday as a state holiday recently floundered in the House, with opponents saying people shouldn't get the day off work. Republicans also criticized the "inconsistent way" presidents from Illinois are recognized, but it's possible that measure will be called for another vote in the future.



Ford believes his proposal will fare better on the House floor, saying it wouldn't cost the state money. He said he expected Democrats to vote for it "without a problem."



But it may not receive support from all House Democrats. Rep. Marcus Evans, D-Chicago, is sponsoring a competing measure that would dub the Tri-State the "President Barack Obama Tollway." Evans said in committee Tuesday that he believes his proposal is the better option but said "this is a democracy" and joked that they'll see which measure prevails.



Ford touted the significance of I-55, noting its historical relevance and the number of tourist sites along the highway. He also said Obama frequented the highway during his time in the state Senate when he traveled back and forth between Chicago and the state Capitol.



"President Obama traveled that road for many years coming to and from Springfield," Ford said. (Haley BeMiller)