Final phase of I-80 work in Henry County begins March 9

HENRY COUNTY – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that weather permitting, the final phase of construction on 5.7 miles of Interstate 80 in Henry County will begin Monday, March 9. The work zone is from the Rock River to south of U.S. 6.

The first phase of construction wrapped up in November 2025 and focused on westbound I-80. Work removed and replaced the bridge decks on multiple structures, including over the Rock River and over Cleveland Road in Colona. Other bridges were repaired within the work zone and improvements included pavement patching and resurfacing of I-80.

The final stage one will shift one lane of traffic onto the westbound lanes in a head-to-head configuration as improvements are made to the eastbound lanes and structures. Also, the Colona interchange (exit 7) will be closed for eastbound traffic during this time. The $24.5 million project is expected to be completed by the end of November.

Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area and be prepared for slow and stopped traffic. To avoid the work area, when feasible, 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 7,107 lane miles of highway and 8.4 million square feet of bridge deck as part of Rebuild Illinois, which is investing $33.2 billion into all modes of transportation. Accomplishments through Year Six of Rebuild Illinois include almost $20.8 billion of improvements statewide to 21,309 lane miles of highway, 815 bridges and 1,181 additional safety improvements.

For IDOT District 2 updates, follow us on X at @IDOTDistrict2 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.