The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has announced an upcoming infrastructure improvement project on Illinois 16 between Nokomis and Ohlman. Starting from September 5, the project will focus on replacing three bridges and repairing a box culvert, resulting in traffic adjustments to prepare for the construction.
Motorists should expect a reduction in traffic lanes, with one lane being open during construction. Additionally, a width restriction of 9 feet and 6 inches will be enforced. The project aims to enhance road durability by replacing aging bridges and improving drainage systems, thus enhancing public safety.
To facilitate smooth traffic flow and ensure safety, message boards, temporary traffic signals, barriers, and flaggers will be strategically placed within the project area. The bridge deck reconstruction will take place in two phases, maintaining one lane of traffic during the process.
The project, budgeted at $4.8 million, is slated for completion by November 2024. While the construction offers long-term benefits, motorists traveling through the work zones should expect delays and allocate extra time for their journeys.
Safety remains a top priority during the construction phase. Drivers are strongly advised to pay attention to altered road conditions, obey speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices, and exercise vigilance in the presence of workers and equipment.
The Illinois Department of Transportation's initiative is part of the larger Rebuild Illinois capital program, which is investing $33.2 billion into upgrading transportation systems across the state. Over the next six years, IDOT plans to enhance over 3,000 miles of highways and nearly 10 million square feet of bridge decks.
Year Four of the Rebuild Illinois program has already seen remarkable achievements, including approximately $12.1 billion of improvements statewide on 5,339 miles of highway, 533 bridges, and 762 additional safety enhancements.
For real-time updates and information about IDOT District 6 projects, the public is encouraged to follow @IDOTDistrict on Twitter or explore the traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.
