Southern Illinois is on the brink of a major transformation, thanks to an ambitious series of construction projects funded by the Rebuild Illinois capital program. Announced by Governor JB Pritzker, these projects aim to modernize the region’s infrastructure, improve safety, and boost economic growth.
Rebuild Illinois is a $33.2 billion program, the largest capital investment plan in the state’s history, designed to upgrade and expand Illinois' transportation infrastructure. The initiative focuses on all modes of transportation, including roads, bridges, railways, and airports, ensuring a comprehensive enhancement of the state’s infrastructure.
"Rebuild Illinois is revitalizing communities and neighborhoods by investing in projects and people in Southern Illinois 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 12 key projects that will shape the future of Southern Illinois:
1. Interstate 57 Expansion (Mileposts 63-66)
- Details: Expansion to six lanes and replacement of bridges over Pond Creek in Franklin County.
- Timeline: Began in fall 2019, completed in summer 2022.
- Impact: Improved traffic flow and safety, reduced congestion.
2. Interstate 57 Expansion (Mileposts 66-75)
- Details: Expansion to six lanes and replacement of bridges over the Big Muddy River in Jackson County.
- Timeline: Began in spring 2022, expected completion in 2025.
- Impact: Enhanced transportation efficiency, support for regional economic growth.
3. Interstate 57 Expansion (Mileposts 75-85)
- Details: Expansion to six lanes and replacement of bridges over Marcum Branch and Gun Creek in Franklin County.
- Timeline: Scheduled to begin in 2025, with completion in 2028.
- Impact: Increased capacity and improved infrastructure longevity.
4. Interstate 57 Expansion (Mileposts 85-92)
- Details: Expansion to six lanes and replacement of structures over Dodds Creek in Jefferson County.
- Timeline: Begins in 2024, with completion in 2026.
- Impact: Enhanced safety and traffic management.
5. Interstate 57/64 at Illinois 15 Interchange Reconstruction
- Details: Reconstruction of the Illinois 15 interchange in Jefferson County.
- Timeline: Scheduled to begin in 2025.
- Impact: Improved interchange efficiency and safety.
6. Interstate 24 Upgrades (Mileposts 23-35)
- Details: Resurfacing and bridge repairs in Massac County.
- Timeline: Began in 2021, completed in spring 2023.
- Impact: Enhanced driving conditions and bridge safety.
7. Interstate 24 Upgrades (Mileposts 13-23)
- Details: Resurfacing and bridge repairs in Johnson County.
- Timeline: Began in 2022, expected to be completed later this year.
- Impact: Improved road surface and structural integrity.
8. Interstate 24 Bridge Replacement (Milepost 27.5)
- Details: Bridge replacement in Massac County.
- Timeline: Begins later this year, with completion in 2024.
- Impact: Ensures long-term bridge reliability and safety.
9. Interstate 24 Bridge Deck and Painting on the Ohio River Bridge
- Details: Bridge deck and painting on the Ohio River Bridge in Massac County.
- Timeline: Begins in 2025, with completion in 2027.
- Impact: Prolongs the lifespan of the bridge, maintaining a vital transportation link.
10. Interstate 24 Upgrades (Mileposts 0-13)
- Details: Resurfacing and bridge repairs in Johnson and Williamson counties.
- Timeline: Begins in 2024, with completion in 2025.
- Impact: Enhances road safety and driving conditions.
11. U.S. Route 51 Expansion
- Details: Widening U.S. Route 51 to four lanes from Decatur to Bloomington.
- Timeline: Scheduled to begin in late 2024, with completion in 2026.
- Impact: Reduces congestion, supports local businesses, and improves safety.
12. Illinois Route 3 Upgrade
- Details: Resurfacing and structural improvements from Chester to Waterloo.
- Timeline: Scheduled to begin in 2025, with completion in 2027.
- Impact: Enhances transportation efficiency and safety for local communities.
Community and Economic Impact
The extensive construction activities under Rebuild Illinois are set to create thousands of jobs, thereby boosting the local economy. Improved infrastructure will facilitate better freight mobility, making Southern Illinois more attractive for businesses and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
Environmental and Safety Enhancements
These projects are not only about expansion and modernization but also about ensuring the safety and sustainability of the infrastructure. Modern construction techniques and materials will be used to enhance durability and reduce environmental impact.
Southern Illinois is set to undergo significant changes with the completion of these major construction projects. The improvements to interstates, roads, and bridges will provide long-term benefits, including job creation, enhanced safety, and economic growth. Rebuild Illinois is paving the way for a brighter, more connected future for the region.
