Full closure of Old US 51 in Marion County begins Sept. 28

CENTRAL CITY – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced a full closure of Old U.S. 51 in Marion County beginning Monday, Sept. 28.

During the closure, traffic will not be permitted on Old U.S. 51 between U.S. 51 and Community Beach Road. A signed detour will direct traffic to U.S. 51.

The closure is necessary to construct a new bridge over Crooked Creek. The $4.4 million project is expected to be completed by fall 2027.

Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes during this closure. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction signage, and refrain from using mobile devices while approaching and traveling through the work zone.

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 Seven of Rebuild Illinois include $25.6 billion of improvements statewide to 24,498 lane miles of highway, 959 bridges and 1,475 additional safety improvements.

For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

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