Illinois Toll Authority
Multiple, Illinois
How we verified this
As of August 2026 RadioReference lists the Illinois Toll Highway Authority's Collections talkgroup (2003), both Radio Technicians talkgroups and the individual maintenance-garage talkgroups as encrypted, while the main Tollway channel, operations and HELP-truck talkgroups remain in the clear.
Encryption Details
What This Means
This agency encrypts some of its communications while leaving others open. Which channels are affected depends on the operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Illinois Toll Authority radio encrypted?
Yes. Illinois Toll Authority uses P25 DES-OFB encryption. This agency encrypts some of its communications while leaving others open. Which channels are affected depends on the operation.
Can I listen to Illinois Toll Authority on a police scanner?
Partially. Illinois Toll Authority encrypts some of its talkgroups while leaving others open, so some channels may still be accessible. Check RadioReference for specific talkgroup status.
Why did Illinois Toll Authority encrypt their radio?
The standard justification nationwide is officer safety and operational security, regardless of whether a documented local incident ever required it. The tradeoff that follows is consistent too: public oversight drops, and reporters lose the ability to track other agency response as it happens.
Can Multiple County reverse the encryption decision?
Nothing technical prevents it. Illinois Toll Authority operates encrypted because someone decided it should, and decisions of that kind get revisited when councils hear sustained, organised pressure rather than isolated complaints.
What can I do about Illinois Toll Authority encryption?
File a FOIA request for Illinois Toll Authority's radio recordings and encryption-decision paperwork, then show up to speak at a council or commission meeting. Find other residents or journalists in Multiple County who want the same access — state legislation requiring public radio access is the longer-term fix, but organized local pressure is what usually moves the needle first.