Work focusing on Henrietta Street as the Fayette Avenue reconstruction project resumes

EFFINGHAM – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that work is resuming this week on the Fayette Avenue reconstruction project in Effingham, particularly along Henrietta Street.

North of Fayette Avenue, the reconstruction of the southbound lanes of Henrietta Street continues. A raised median will be constructed from Fayette Avenue going south to Edgar Avenue. One lane of traffic will remain open in each direction on Henrietta Street from Jefferson Avenue to Edgar Avenue.

Started in 2023, the Fayette Avenue project consists of widening the existing four lanes from Illini Drive to Walnut Street and adding a middle turn lane from Henrietta Street to Walnut Street. Additional elements include upgrading storm sewers, constructing a multiuse path, adding ADA-compliant sidewalks, modernizing traffic signals, installing new lighting, and improving intersections and side streets. The improved Fayette Avenue will help reduce congestion along a busy commercial corridor, increase transportation options for residents and enhance local quality of life. This project is expected to be completed this summer.

Motorists can expect delays and allow extra time for trips through this area. 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 more than 3,200 miles of highway and nearly 9 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 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 7 updates, follow us on Twitter at @IDOTDistrict7 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

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