Grundy County is set for a major transformation with significant construction projects scheduled as part of Governor JB Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois Capital program. These initiatives aim to enhance infrastructure, improve safety, and stimulate local economic growth. Below is a detailed look at each of the projects, focusing on the specific construction and design elements of interest to workers in the field.
1. I-80 Bridge Replacement Over the Des Plaines River
Details:
- Scope: Complete bridge replacement
- Completion: 2026
- Key Activities:
-
- Demolition of the existing bridge
- Installation of new foundations and steel frameworks
- Concrete decking and modern safety features
2. Route 47 Expansion from I-80 to Reed Road
Details:
- Scope: Widening the roadway
- Completion: 2025
- Key Activities:
-
- Excavation and grading
- New asphalt paving
- Upgraded drainage systems
- Modernized traffic signals
3. Downtown Morris Streetscape Enhancement
Details:
- Scope: Streetscape improvements
- Completion: 2024
- Key Activities
-
- Sidewalk widening and repaving
- New street lighting
- Landscaping with trees and plants
- Installation of public furniture such as benches and bike racks
4. Route 6 Resurfacing from Morris to Channahon
Details:
- Scope: Resurfacing and minor repairs
- Completion: 2024
- Key Activities:
-
- Milling of old asphalt
- Application of new asphalt layer
- Shoulder repairs and signage upgrades
5. Seneca Interchange Improvements at I-80
Details:
- Scope: Interchange capacity and safety enhancements
- Completion: 2025
- Key Activities:
-
- Reconstruction of ramps
- Addition of new lanes
- Installation of traffic signals
- Improved drainage systems
6. Grundy County Bridge Maintenance
Details:
- Scope: Maintenance and repair of various bridges
- Completion: 2024
- Key Activities:
-
- Structural assessments
- Reinforcement work
- Deck repairs and protective coatings
7. Route 113 Reconstruction in Coal City
Details:
- Scope: Complete reconstruction of Route 113
- Completion: 2024
- Key Activities:
-
- Full-depth pavement reconstruction
- New stormwater management systems
- Sidewalk installation and lighting improvements
8. Route 129 Realignment in Braidwood
Details:
- Scope: Realigning Route 129
- Completion: 2025
- Key Activities:
-
- Road realignment
- New intersections
- Drainage system improvements
9. Canal Road Bridge Replacement
Details:
- Scope: Replacing the Canal Road Bridge
- Completion: 2024
- Key Activities:
-
- Demolition of the old bridge
- Construction of a new bridge
- Enhanced safety features
10. Gardner Road Extension
Details:
- Scope: Extending Gardner Road
- Completion: 2024
- Key Activities:
-
- Road extension
- New pavement and drainage
- Intersection improvements
11. Illinois River Drive Widening
Details:
- Scope: Widening Illinois River Drive
- Completion: 2025
- Key Activities:
-
- Pavement widening
- Enhanced drainage systems
- Traffic management upgrades
12. Route 53 Signal Modernization
Details:
- Scope: Modernizing traffic signals along Route 53
- Completion: 2024
- Key Activities:
-
- Replacing outdated traffic signals
- Installing advanced signal control system
13. New Pedestrian Bridge in Minooka
Details:
- Scope: Constructing a new pedestrian bridge
- Completion: 2024
- Key Activities:
-
- Foundation work
- Erecting the bridge structure
- Landscaping and accessibility improvements
14. Route 59 Intersection Improvement in Shorewood
Details:
- Scope: Improving the intersection at Route 59
- Completion: 2025
- Key Activities:
-
- Road widening
- New traffic signals
- Enhanced pedestrian crossings
15. Route 71 Curve Correction in Norway
Details:
- Scope: Correcting dangerous curves on Route 71
- Completion: 2024
- Key Activities:
-
- Road realignment
- New safety barriers
WCSJ News reports that these projects will significantly enhance local infrastructure, supporting economic growth and community engagement:
- Transportation Improvements: Making travel safer and more efficient.
- Economic Boost: Attracting new businesses and residents.
- Community Enhancement: Creating pedestrian-friendly and visually appealing spaces.
Grundy County’s construction projects under the Rebuild Illinois Capital program represent a significant investment in the area’s future. These projects offer construction workers a chance to engage with innovative techniques and sustainable practices, while contributing to the local community’s development.