Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long will it take for this project to be completed?
   Construction will begin in the spring of 2013 and is scheduled to be completed by mid-summer of 2015.
    

2. Will there be detours and where?
   Traffic will be diverted off of Jefferson St. at the tunnels to Jackson St. to complete the removal of the tunnels and construction of the bridges. This detour will be in effect for the entire 2013 construction season.

Northbound I-155 traffic wishing to go eastbound on I-74 will be diverted to the Pinecrest Dr. interchange and redirected eastbound on I-74. This is necessary to complete interim ramp work at the I-74/I-155 interchange. This detour will be in effect during the fall of 2013.
Construction of the north ramps that connect I-155 to I-74 will require complete closure of those ramps. Traffic will be diverted to either the Pinecrest Dr. interchange or the Morton Ave. interchange. Traffic will be redirected from those interchanges to the direction they wish to travel. This detour will be in effect for the entire 2014 construction season. Please view the video on the home page for a look at the project detours.
 

3. Why did you decide to switch it so I-155 traffic will travel over I-74 traffic?
   By removing the bridges over the abandoned railroad on I-74 just east of the interchange we are able to keep I-74 at a flatter grade through the interchange and switch I-155 over I-74. This configuration allows for greater safety and ease of driving for motorists using the ramps at the interchange by eliminating rapid acceleration or deceleration upon exiting or entering the ramps.
    

4. What are the benefits of this project?
   Removal and replacement of the deteriorated structures on I-74 combined with reconstruction of the roadway and ramps to current policy standards provides for a safer system that accommodates the large number of motorists using the interchange on a daily basis. This configuration, which includes the addition of an extra lane both eastbound and westbound on I-74, will reduce congestion and delays and better accommodate both truck and vehicle traffic.
    

5. How many lanes will be open on I-74 during construction?
   Two traffic lanes both eastbound and westbound will be provided on I-74 throughout the construction timeline. However, periodic lane closures or lane reductions at isolated locations to set up traffic staging or perform spot construction work may occur.
    

6. Why are we doing this improvement?
   This section of I-74 contains a total of eight structures that were all constructed in the early 1960’s. The pavement was also completed at that time. The system has performed well over the years, but is approaching the end of its service life. We are bringing this interchange and section of I-74 up to current design standards for improved safety and efficiency for motorists.
    

7. How can I help?
   Every effort has been made to reduce your delay and provide for safety for not only yourself, but also to the construction workers. Delays will still occur though, and you should plan extra time for your trips through the work zone. Carpool if possible, adjust your trips to off-peak traffic flow times, or avoid the work zone altogether. This project will have a reduced speed limit through the work zone. As with all work zones, slow down and use extreme caution. Put down your cell phone and eliminate distractions while driving through the work zone.
    

8. How can I stay informed of the construction progress?
   We will post project updates on this website. Please check back often!