Prairie State Wire

Entering the fifth year of Rebuild Illinois, the Illinois Department of Transportation has announced several projects in the Bloomington-Normal area. These initiatives reflect a continued commitment to infrastructure improvements, facilitated by Governor JB Pritzker's bipartisan capital program. The six major projects, amounting to over $48 million, aim to enhance safety and mobility while creating jobs in the region.

Governor Pritzker stated, "Rebuild Illinois is revitalizing communities and neighborhoods by investing in projects and people in the Bloomington-Normal area and throughout the state." He emphasized that this largest capital program in state history will deliver improvements for a more resilient transportation system for future generations.

The projects set for completion in 2023 include:

- Veterans Parkway from Clearwater Avenue to Old Route 66 in Bloomington is undergoing patching, milling, and resurfacing with ADA improvements. This work began in June and is expected to conclude by October. Traffic is reduced to one lane from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.

- U.S. Business 51 near Raab Road in Normal involves replacing a box culvert. Work started in June with an anticipated completion date in September, reducing traffic to one lane each way.

- Old U.S. 51 over Kickapoo Creek north of U.S. 136 involves bridge superstructure replacement starting June through November; Old U.S. 51 will remain closed during this period.

- Illinois 9 from Illinois 122 to Walton Drive has seen patching, milling, and resurfacing since April with an expected wrap-up by July. It operates on one lane with flaggers.

- I-55 from Logan County line southward is undergoing similar works since June with an October completion target; traffic reduced to one lane each direction.

- I-74 near I-55 Business extending east of U.S. 51 at I-55 began its upgrades in May with plans finishing by September; it remains single-lane both ways.

State Representative Sharon Chung highlighted the importance of these developments: "Improvements to the safety and stability of Bloomington's roads and bridges is a vital step towards building a stronger future for our community."

Rebuild Illinois was initiated in 2019 with a $33.2 billion investment over six years into aging transport systems statewide, touching all modes including roads, transit, waterways, railways, aviation, and pedestrian pathways.

Bloomington Mayor Mboka Mwilambwe remarked on its impact: "Rebuild Illinois has been a game-changer for our city...Thanks to Rebuild Illinois, Bloomington is positioned for sustainable growth."

Through four years of progress under Rebuild Illinois about $12.1 billion have improved thousands of miles of highways alongside hundreds of bridges statewide.

Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman reminded drivers about ongoing construction: "If you are driving in Illinois this construction season...stay patient."

Further information on these projects can be found on IDOT's website or social media platforms.