Construction starting on lane expansion at I-57/I-74 interchange

Jared Thomas
·1 min read

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Construction at the I-57/I-74 interchange in Champaign is ramping up as warmer weather arrives.

Officials with the Illinois Department of Transportation said among other things, workers will build a three-lane expansion on westbound I-74 between Prospect Avenue and Duncan Road. Crews will also be adding noise walls to help limit highway sound for the homes nearby.

I-57/I-74 Interchange construction completes first phase

Jason Smith, an engineer working on the project said most of the ramps will be new. Others will be replaced and updated for a smoother ride for drivers.

“The most important thing is the safety,” Smith said. “Obviously, the configuration of the interchange was outdated and included some weaving movements and some switchbacks and curves that change directions and things that needed to be replaced.”

Smith said they still have a ton of work to finish, but they’re hoping to open up one or two ramps by the end of spring.

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