Road work ahead: Work begins on main connector from Rockford to Byron
If there is anything that could make the scenic drive along Illinois Route 2 more enjoyable, some drivers might say a smoother ride. They're in luck.
The Illinois Department of Transportation has kicked off a three-month construction project on the main thoroughfare between Rockford and Byron.
Here's what you need to know:
More: A look inside 4 major projects coming to Rockford this construction season
When did the construction start?
Monday, July 10.
Where does the construction start?
The 10.6-mile work zone is from Illinois Route 72 in Byron to Beltline Road in Rockford.
What's being done?
Work will consist of patching and will require isolated, complete road closures with a marked detour.
What should drivers expect?
Drivers can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through the area. They may want to consider using an alternate route all together until the construction is complete. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changing conditions and signs in the work zones, obey posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.
Is there a designated detour route?
Traffic between Byron and Rockford should follow the detour using Illinois 72, Kishwaukee Road and Beltline Road.Illinois 2 will be accessible to local traffic.
How much is this project going to cost?
$1.4 million.
When will it be done?
Oct. 4.
Is this project part of the state's Rebuild Illinois capital program?
Yes. Over the next six years, the Illinois Department of Transportation is planning to improve more than 3,500 miles of highway and 9 million square feet of bridge decks, an investment of $33.2 billion into all modes of transportation.
More: More than $430 million coming to Rockford area to fix roads
Where can I go for construction updates
For IDOT District 2 updates, follow IDOT on Twitter at @IDOTDistrict2 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.
Chris Green: 815-987-1241; cgreen@rrstar.com; @chrisfgreen
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Illinois 2 from Rockford to Byron receiving $1.4 million in upgrades
