Comments being sought for proposed Illinois 170 improvements in Seneca

OTTAWA – The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking public comments on the proposed improvements to Illinois 170 in Seneca in La Salle County. The project limits extend from U.S. 6 to South Street and will have an impact on the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Area State Park.

The proposed project will replace the existing Illinois 170 pavement that was last resurfaced in 2001. This section of road was originally constructed in 1928 and was widened in 1963.

Also, the bridge crossing the I&M Canal, originally built in 1940 and repaired in 1989, will be replaced. The bridge replacement will require a temporary closure of the multi-use trail and the canal in the vicinity of the project during construction. In addition, a culvert will be replaced that crosses Rat Run.

Maps, drawings, aerial photography, environmental clearances, and other information will be available for review during normal business hours (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) at the District 3 office, ​ 700 E. Norris Drive, Ottawa, IL 61350. Written comments may be submitted or mailed to the District 3 office or emailed to kenneth.banga@illinois.gov. Comments must be received by Friday, Feb. 28, to be considered as part of the public record.

Over the next six years, IDOT is planning to improve more than 3,000 miles of highway and nearly 10 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. Accomplishments through Year Five of Rebuild Illinois include approximately $16 billion of improvements statewide on 6,541 miles of highway, 686 bridges and 986 additional safety improvements.

For IDOT District 3 updates on X, follow us at @IDOTDistrict3. View area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map at www.GettingAroundIllinois.com.