Marion, IL – Drivers across southern Illinois are being urged to prepare for significant travel disruptions as a full interstate closure is scheduled to begin Monday evening along Interstate 57.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, both northbound and southbound lanes of I-57 will close at 7 p.m. Monday between exit 65 near West Frankfort and exit 59 at Johnston City. The shutdown will impact motorists traveling through Williamson and Franklin counties, including those commuting near Marion, Johnston City and West Frankfort.
The closure is required to safely install structural beams for the Stritz Road bridge, which crosses over the interstate. Transportation officials said the work is part of an ongoing infrastructure improvement project aimed at maintaining long-term roadway safety and reliability in the region.
All traffic will be detoured off I-57 during the closure. Drivers will be directed to use Illinois Route 37 between exits 59 and 65, with posted signage guiding vehicles along the alternate route. Officials warn that congestion is likely, especially during peak travel hours, as both local and through traffic are rerouted.
Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and remain alert for changing traffic patterns and construction crews in the area. Commercial drivers, in particular, may want to seek alternate routes to avoid delays.
No reopening time has been confirmed, and officials say updates will be provided as work progresses. Travelers are advised to monitor road conditions and check for alerts before heading out.
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