Rochelle, Illinois – Construction resumes this week at the I-39 and Illinois 38 interchange, triggering lane closures and traffic shifts in Rochelle.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, work restarted Monday on the $23.9 million reconstruction project at the Interstate 39 and Illinois 38 interchange. Crews activated a temporary traffic signal at Illinois 38 and the southbound I-39 entrance and exit ramps. The existing temporary signal at the opposite side of the bridge will remain in place.
Initial construction this week includes installation of protective shielding on the Illinois 38 bridge over I-39. IDOT said nightly lane closures will occur on both I-39 and Illinois 38 for up to two weeks. On March 9, one lane of traffic in each direction on Illinois 38 is scheduled to shift to the eastbound side of the bridge.
The project will convert the current diamond interchange into a diverging diamond design and repair the structure carrying Illinois 38 over I-39. Additional work includes new lighting, updated traffic signals, intersection improvements at Dement Road, and construction of a multiuse path across I-39.
IDOT said one lane in each direction will remain open throughout the project, though multiple traffic shifts are expected. Completion is scheduled for late 2027.
Drivers, including student commuters and young workers traveling between Rochelle and surrounding communities, are urged to follow posted speed limits and remain alert in the work zone.
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