End in sight for major Brush College Road project in Decatur

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Drivers in Decatur have pretty much gotten used to construction barrels alongside Brush College Road, but Decatur Public Works said the project is solving a problem that's been causing this area time, money and traffic for years.

"The Brush College corridor is the big corridor for industrial use in the city," said Matt Newell, public works director.

For years, the trains crossing at Ferris Parkway have blocked the intersection, causing delays and traffic back up, which has created problems for emergency response. That's why the 1.21-mile corridor project began in 2023.

"Currently, it's about 76% complete. Their intention is to be completed by the end of this year," Newell said.

Newell said traffic will significantly improve near the Faries Parkway Norfolk Southern track. Overall, the plan is to go further south to improve the William Street area.

"Those will be funding will be sought out for those for the next coming years, and hopefully we'll see those move forward as funding is secured," Newell said.

This phase of the project costs over $60 million. Many drivers are also raising questions about the narrow underpass just less than a quarter mile south on Brush College Road. Newell said the underpass could be addressed down the road as more funding is secured.

"You're looking at maybe $100 million for the next phase and maybe another $50 or so million to get down to William Street," Newell said.

Ultimately, folks have to wait just a little while longer for the Brush College Road construction to clear up.

"It's best just to slow down a bit and try to be patient, as everybody is trying to be as cautious as we can, and make things as efficient as possible for the public traveling," Newell said.