Construction projects start work across central Illinois

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — Whether you are planning a trip to Chicago, Indianapolis, or farther away, your route will likely be littered with traffic cones. While construction projects can make travel more timely and difficult, they are crucial for long-term infrastructure.

In Champaign, the largest projects are taking place where Interstate 57 and Interstate 74 intersect.

"There's going to be three ramp closures, to facilitate traffic movements to the outside lanes of I-74," said Paul Wappel, Spokesperson for the Illinois Department of Transportation. "This will allow for the removal and replacement of the remaining inner portions of the I-74 over the I-57 bridge. This will also allow for completion of all I-74 pavement. Late summer or early fall, I-57 paving will begin there. By the end of the year, we hope to have all the ramps open."

For updates on these project as well as planned re-opening dates, you can visit this website.

In Springfield, IDOT is replacing three bridges over Interstate 55. This includes adding a third northbound and southbound lane through Springfield, and other safety improvements.

"The new Bissell Road bridge will include a separated five foot wide pedestrian path," said Wappel. "The new Andrew Road Bridge will include a separated, ten foot wide shared use path, and the new Sudduth Road bridge will include four foot wide shoulders. So construction on both Bissell and Andrew Road will be staged to accommodate traffic during construction. Sudduth Road will be replaced under a road closure."

IDOT is resurfacing US-36 from US-48 to Church Street and West Eldorado Street. Crews will also replace bridge joints, modernized traffic signals, and improve accessibility.

No matter what construction you encounter, safety should be a priority. Wappel said a majority of people killed in work zones are motorists, not workers.

"Please avoid all distractions and obey the posted signs," said Wappel. "They will help you safely navigate through the work zones and help you avoid delays. Slow down and pay special attention to your surroundings. Conditions such as lane shifts or road closures can change quickly in a work zone."

For the latest updates on ongoing construction projects, IDOT updates their social media when lanes open or close.