Final stage of Interstate 70 project in Effingham County starts Tuesday

EFFINGHAM COUNTY, Ill. (WAND) - Reconstruction of westbound Interstate 70 from just east of the I-57/70 interchange to just east of the Cumberland/Effingham County line, east of Montrose, will start Tuesday.

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced the project, saying it will include several new safety features this year.

IDOT has created a webpage, idot.click/I70, to keep motorists informed of important updates and changing conditions along the I-70/U.S. 40 corridor.

Once the work zone is established, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction on the eastbound lanes rebuilt last year, separated by the barrier walls, while the westbound lanes are reconstructed.

Until the project is finished this fall, backups and congestion approaching the work zone should be expected at all times.

The work zone will include several new safety elements. They include extra dynamic message signs posted in advance of the northbound and eastbound I-57/70 split, helping to move I-57 traffic to the left lane. Temporary rumble strips will be installed prior to the work zone and through it to help keep drivers alert.

IDOT said in recent weeks it has met and coordinated with local police and fire departments in Effingham County to advise them on other safety elements added at their request, including pull-off locations in the work zone to respond to vehicle breakdowns or crashes. The group also discussed the most efficient method to access the work zone when crashes or other emergencies occur.

The overall $50 million improvement on I-70 includes the reconstruction of 7 miles in both directions, including the replacement of the eastbound and westbound bridges over the Montrose Blacktop.