Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has announced the commencement of the final phase of reconstruction for westbound Interstate 70 in Effingham County. The project, stretching from east of the I-57/70 interchange to just east of the Cumberland/Effingham County line, is set to begin on Tuesday, April 9, weather permitting. This start date was strategically chosen to avoid interference with Monday's solar eclipse, which is expected to attract large crowds to southern Illinois.

The project includes several new safety features and aims to keep motorists informed through a dedicated webpage at idot.click/I70. Once the work zone is established, traffic will be limited to one lane in each direction on the previously rebuilt eastbound lanes. These lanes will be separated by barrier walls as reconstruction occurs on the westbound side.

Motorists should expect congestion and delays near the work zone until its completion this fall. Drivers are advised to reduce speed, remain attentive, and heed traffic control signs. New safety measures include dynamic message signs before the northbound and eastbound I-57/70 split and temporary rumble strips within the work zone. Additionally, Illinois State Police will increase their presence to monitor distracted driving and speeding.

IDOT has collaborated with local police and fire departments in Effingham County to implement additional safety measures such as pull-off locations for vehicle breakdowns or crashes. Discussions also covered efficient access strategies for emergency situations.

This $50 million improvement project is part of Gov. JB Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois capital program, which plans extensive infrastructure upgrades over six years. This initiative aims to enhance more than 3,000 miles of highway and nearly 10 million square feet of bridge deck statewide.

For updates from IDOT District 7, follow their Twitter account @IDOTDistrict7 or sign up for email alerts via IDOT in Motion.