12 Infrastructure Projects Planned for Macon County

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has announced 12 major construction projects that are either underway or scheduled to begin in Macon County over the coming months. Officials stated that the upcoming construction season is expected to be one of the busiest ever.

These projects, all under the scope of the Rebuild Illinois capital plan, represent a state investment of nearly $195 million aimed at improving safety and mobility in the region. 

“Rebuild Illinois is revitalizing communities and neighborhoods by investing in projects and people in the Macon County area and throughout the state. Through the largest capital program in state history, IDOT will be delivering improvements to build a more resilient, accessible and equitable system of transportation for generations to come, while creating jobs and enhancing local quality of life.”

Governor of Illinois | JB Pritzker

Here’s a detailed look at the planned projects and their expected impacts:

1. Illinois Route 121 from U.S. 36 through Mt. Zion

This project focuses on enhancing road safety and accessibility through Mt. Zion. The improvements will provide a smoother driving experience and ensure compliance with ADA standards.

2. Illinois Route 121 from I-72 to University Avenue

The resurfacing and ADA upgrades will enhance both the structural integrity and accessibility of this busy route, ensuring safer travel for all users.

3. U.S. Route 51 from north of Forsyth to I-72

• Scope: Resurfacing and ADA improvements
• Timeline: Started in April 2024, scheduled to be complete by summer 2025

This project aims to improve the road surface and accessibility features, reducing wear and tear on vehicles and making travel safer for pedestrians and drivers alike.

4. U.S. Route 36 (Illinois Route 48 to Church Street) and West Eldorado Street (Illinois Route 48 to U.S. Route 36)

These upgrades will address critical infrastructure needs, ensuring safer and more efficient travel on these heavily trafficked routes.

5. U.S. Route 51 from the DeWitt/Macon County line to Forsyth

• Scope: Resurfacing
• Timeline: Started in 2023, scheduled to be complete this summer

The resurfacing of this segment will improve driving conditions and extend the lifespan of the road, enhancing overall travel safety and efficiency.

6. Illinois Route 121 from just east of Burgener Drive in Mt. Zion to west of Illinois 128

• Scope: Resurfacing
• Timeline: Started in March 2024, scheduled to be complete in November 2024

This project will provide a smoother driving experience and improve road durability, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.

7. Brush College Road and Faries Parkway

• Scope: Grade separation, including two overhead train tracks
• Timeline: Started last fall, scheduled to be complete in 2026

The grade separation will significantly reduce traffic delays and improve safety by eliminating train crossings at grade, benefiting both drivers and pedestrians.

8. Reas Bridge Road

• Scope: Bridge replacement over Lake Decatur
• Timeline: Started last fall, scheduled to be complete in 2026

Replacing the bridge will ensure safe and reliable crossings over Lake Decatur, with the project reducing traffic to one lane controlled by temporary signals during construction.

9. Illinois Route 48 from north of U.S. 51 to south of Bowman Road

• Scope: Resurfacing
• Timeline: Starting this summer, scheduled to be complete this fall

This resurfacing project will enhance road conditions, providing a smoother and safer driving experience for motorists.

10. U.S. Route 36 over Lake Shore Drive

• Scope: Bridge replacement
• Timeline: Starting in September 2024, scheduled to be complete in late 2025

Replacing the bridge will ensure the long-term safety and reliability of this critical infrastructure, supporting both local and through traffic.

11. Illinois Route 105 at Long Creek, half-mile east of Oakley Road

• Scope: Bridge replacement
• Timeline: Starting November 2024, scheduled to be complete in late 2025

This project will enhance the structural integrity and safety of the bridge, ensuring continued safe passage for vehicles and pedestrians.

12. Main Street from just north of Eldorado Street in Harristown to North Glasgow Road

• Scope: Resurfacing
• Timeline: Starting this summer, scheduled to be completed this fall

Resurfacing Main Street will improve road conditions, making travel smoother and safer for all users.

Yahoo!News reports that Rebuild Illinois has had a tremendous impact on Macon County, bringing good-paying job opportunities and boosting the local economy. These infrastructure improvements will help our communities grow and increase accessibility for our residents, ensuring a brighter future for all.