SOUTHERN ILLINOIS — The Illinois Department of Transportation is reminding motorists of two major road projects that will begin this week in our listening area.

Starting Wednesday, April 10, in Marion County, a pavement reconstruction and bridge repair project will require one lane to be closed on southbound and northbound Interstate 57 from just north of Illinois 161 to the Jefferson County line.

The ramps from northbound I-57 to and from Illinois 161 will remain open; however, the ramps from southbound I-57 to and from Illinois 161 will be closed for the 2024 construction season.

This stage of the project will last throughout the 2024 construction season. The times and locations of future restrictions will be announced as the project continues.

The overall $68.5 million project is to be completed by the spring of 2025.

Then on Thursday, April 11, in Jefferson County, a pavement reconstruction and bridge repair project on eastbound and westbound Interstate 64 from U.S. Route 51 to Interstate 57 will begin, weather permitting.

To accommodate the work, eastbound I-64 traffic will be reduced to one lane to install a temporary concrete barrier along the centerline, beginning Thursday.

Approximately two weeks later, the eastbound and westbound traffic will share the eastbound lanes to allow the reconstruction of the westbound lanes. To perform the work, southbound I-57 to the westbound I-64 ramp will be closed.

This stage of the project will last throughout the 2024 construction season. The times and locations of future restrictions will be announced as the project continues.

Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changing conditions and all detour signs before the work zone, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices, and be alert for workers and equipment.