Lane closure for Beardstown Bridge begins March 12

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that the Beardstown Bridge carrying U.S. 67 over the Illinois River will close one lane starting Wednesday, March 12. A recent bridge inspection found the structure in disrepair that requires the closure of one lane to accommodate normal traffic weight capacity.

In addition to the required repairs based on the inspection, a planned $3 million repair project that was scheduled to begin this spring will also be performed. That project includes deck patching, joint repair and structural steel repairs. The repairs are intended to ensure the bridge remains open to traffic, without load restrictions, until a new bridge can be completed. It is estimated that the project will be completed this fall.

Work continues to advance on the replacement of the Beardstown Bridge. Land acquisition activities required for the new bridge are ongoing and will require additional time to complete. ​

“We are also continuing our coordination with the South Beardstown Drainage and Levee District and Coal Creek Drainage and Levee District,” said Greg Heckel, Bureau Chief of Program Development for IDOT District 6. “We appreciate the community’s patience as we work to maintain this important river crossing and are hopeful the bridge replacement project will be advertised for bid later this year.”

Traffic signals will be installed to assist with traffic control. Motorists can expect delays and should consider an alternate route. 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.

For IDOT District 6 updates, follow us on Twitter at @IDOTDistrict6 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

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