Downs, Illinois – Drivers traveling through McLean County tonight should plan for delays as Interstate 74 will temporarily shut down near the village of Downs for utility work, impacting both directions of traffic.
According to Illinois State Police Troop 5, slow-rolling traffic closures will begin around 10 p.m. tonight on I-74 between mileposts 140 and 142, just west of Downs. The closures are being conducted so Ameren crews can safely remove a power line crossing the interstate.
Police said both eastbound and westbound lanes of I-74 will be completely shut down for approximately 30 minutes during the operation. In addition, the Downs entrance ramp to westbound I-74 will also be closed while the work is underway.
Motorists are urged to avoid the area during the closure window if possible or expect temporary delays while traffic is stopped and released in stages. No official detour has been announced, but drivers may consider alternate routes through local roads until the interstate reopens.
Illinois State Police said the closures are expected to be brief but emphasized that timing could shift slightly depending on how quickly crews are able to complete the work safely.
Drivers are reminded to slow down, remain alert, and follow directions from law enforcement if traveling near the closure zone tonight.
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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