April 20, 2021 – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that construction on U.S. 51 from a half-mile north of the Shelby County line to the Christian County line begins on Thursday, April 22.
The work will reduce U.S. 51 to one lane in each direction at times, with traffic control utilizing dynamic message signs, spotters, and barricades. This project, made possible by Governor JB Pritzker’s historic and bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital program, includes resurfacing, guardrail upgrades, and pavement markings. Motorists can expect a smoother driving surface with this work, which is expected to be complete this fall. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area.
To avoid the work area, when feasible, the use of alternate routes should be considered. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.
Over the next six years, IDOT is planning to improve more than 3,300 miles of highway and 8.4 million square feet of bridge deck as part of the Rebuild Illinois capital program, which is investing $33.2 billion into all modes of transportation. Year One included approximately $2.7 billion of improvements statewide on 1,706 miles of highway, 128 bridges, and 228 additional safety improvements.
