IROQUOIS COUNTY, IL – Motorists traveling through Iroquois County should expect lane closures and possible traffic delays as a major road improvement project is now underway on Interstate 57.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the $30.6 million project stretches from the Buckley interchange at exit 272 to the Ford County line. Crews will patch and resurface the highway, upgrade the Main Line Station Rest Area lot, and make bridge repairs on Iroquois County Highway 10 over I-57 and on I-57 over Spring Creek and Louis Creek.
Work on northbound lanes is scheduled through the rest of this year, with construction shifting to southbound lanes in spring 2026. IDOT said the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Officials warned drivers to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and remain alert for changing traffic patterns. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes when possible and are reminded to obey posted speed limits in work zones. IDOT stressed that drivers should pay close attention to signage, avoid mobile device use, and stay alert for workers and equipment.
The I-57 improvements are part of the state’s broader Rebuild Illinois program, a $33.2 billion transportation investment launched in 2019. Over the next six years, the initiative is slated to repair or rebuild more than 3,200 miles of highway and nearly 9 million square feet of bridge deck statewide. IDOT reports that since its launch, the program has already funded more than $20.8 billion in infrastructure upgrades, covering 7,897 miles of roadway, 815 bridges and over 1,100 additional safety improvements.
Residents can track project updates on IDOT’s traveler information map at www.GettingAroundIllinois.com.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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