CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — If you're traveling through Central Illinois, especially towards Chicago or Indianapolis, be prepared for construction zones and traffic delays. While the inconvenience of traffic cones and detours may slow your journey, these ongoing projects are vital for maintaining and improving the region’s infrastructure.

In Champaign, the most significant developments are taking place at the intersection of Interstate 57 and Interstate 74.

“There’s going to be three ramp closures to facilitate traffic movements to the outside lanes of I-74,” explained Paul Wappel, spokesperson for the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). “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 the 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 real-time project updates and re-opening information, travelers can visit the IDOT website.

In Springfield, IDOT is addressing critical bridge replacements on Interstate 55. These updates include adding a third lane on both the northbound and southbound sides through Springfield, as well as additional 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 Roads will be staged to accommodate traffic during construction. Sudduth Road will be replaced under a road closure.”

Crews are also resurfacing US-36 from US-48 to Church Street and West Eldorado Street, working on bridge joint replacements, modernizing traffic signals, and improving accessibility for all travelers.

No matter the location or project, safety remains the primary concern. Wappel stressed that the majority of fatalities in work zones involve motorists, not workers.

“Please avoid all distractions and obey the posted signs,” Wappel urged. “They will help you safely navigate through the work zones and 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 further updates on construction projects and lane changes, IDOT actively posts real-time updates across their social media platforms.

As these projects progress, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to plan accordingly, taking alternative routes when necessary. With the weather improving, the construction crews are working hard to complete these essential updates before the colder months arrive. Regular travelers are advised to stay informed via the IDOT website and social media to avoid inconvenience.

In addition, some projects, such as the resurfacing on US-36, are particularly significant for improving traffic flow and safety. IDOT’s efforts to modernize traffic signals and install accessible pedestrian paths are set to benefit both drivers and pedestrians in the long term, enhancing the overall travel experience throughout Central Illinois.

Key Takeaways

• Ongoing construction projects across Central Illinois aim to improve safety and infrastructure.
• Ramp closures and lane shifts are expected around the I-57/I-74 intersection in Champaign.
• Springfield is undergoing bridge replacements and other infrastructure enhancements on I-55.
• Safety remains a top priority; drivers are urged to avoid distractions and obey signs.

For further details or to follow the progress of these developments, check IDOT's official social media channels for live updates on lane changes, closures, and completed work.

Originally reported by Carlee Bronkema in Wand News.