A University of Illinois economist said he thinks the state’s economy will likely remain healthy for at least the next year and a half.

U of I Economist Fred Giertz says Illinois is experiencing its highest economic growth in 20 months. 

The University of Illinois’ Flash Index shows an Illinois economy that continues to hold its own, while still lagging behind the nation as a whole. The Flash Index for February measured the Illinois economy at 104.6, up from 104.4 in January.  

There’s some encouraging news about the Illinois economy, according to a University of Illinois survey.

The University of Illinois Flash Economic Index is at its lowest level in five years. The October number clocked in at 103-point nine, down three-tenths of a point from September.