Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to questions commonly asked:

Q: What exactly will be done to Main Street?

Main Street from Pine Street to Collett Street will be completely removed and replaced. New concrete pavement, curb and gutter, entrances, sidewalks, storm sewer, traffic signals and pavement markings will provide motorists with a safer, better looking highway. Walnut Street will be changed to a two way street at the request of the City of Danville. Parking will no longer be permitted along Main Street. The City will install new street lights throughout the project.

Q: Is there really a need for this project?

The existing pavement is several decades old and the cost of repairing it exceeds the cost of building a new road. The grades and slopes of the road in relation to the buildings will not allow an overlay. The road would have to be ground down so much to meet the buildings there would not be enough of the existing pavement thickness left to use as a base. The existing lanes are very narrow – 11 feet and in some places 10 feet wide. The modern standard width is 12 feet. Presently the curb is next to the edge of pavement. A 2 feet wide gutter will be built with the curb that will provide a buffer between traffic and the sidewalk. The existing pavement surface has been worn smooth. The new surface will have more friction that will reduce the distance needed to stop quickly. This will reduce wet weather accidents. The new storm sewer system will remove storm water runoff from the road faster. Narrow side streets make turning difficult. These side streets will be widened to make turns easier and more comfortable. There are large bumps in the driving lanes that need to be removed where the side streets meet Main Street. The improvement will result in a safer, more efficient highway facility that will provide potential for enhanced economic development. Anticipated traffic growth will reduce the level of service if no improvements are made. Main Street needs to be updated to meet modern demands and conditions.

Q: How much will the project cost?

The estimated total cost for the Main Street Reconstruction Project will be nearly $7 million.

Q: Has the project been discussed with the property owners?

The property owners, community, and the Illinois Department of Transportation have been working together since the initial public involvement meeting on June 18, 1997.

Q: How do I find out where construction is happening and the latest side streets closures to avoid?

Throughout the project there will be a weekly update to let motorists know what to expect in the upcoming week. Side street closures and openings information is available from this site. Work on business entrances will also be announced. The Main Street Reconstruction homepage also features a map that shows lane closures and construction staging.

Q: Why are left turns prohibited on the project?

Traffic will move better if vehicles are not waiting for opportunities to turn left. Reducing the available roadway to one lane each way will not present many gaps for left turning vehicles.

Q: Is this project going to slow down traffic and increase my travel time?

Yes. It’s important to remember that although this may be a temporary inconvenience, the end result will be a much smoother and safer Main Street that will last well into the future.

Q: When will IDOT work on Main Street from Nicklas to Kansas Streets?

This last portion of the Main Street rehabilitation has been designed but is not yet scheduled in the fiscal program.