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IL 97 Expressway

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IDOT is proposing to upgrade a section of Illinois Route 97 (IL 97) northwest of Springfield.  The facility is currently a two-lane rural highway west of Koke Mill Road and continues as a four-lane urban section approaching Veterans Parkway.  This portion of IL 97 primarily serves commuters that live in surrounding northwestern communities but work in the Springfield Metropolitan area.  IL 97 also represents a primary route for tourists traveling to the New Salem Village Historic Site which is located approximately 14 miles north of the project’s western terminus and is one of the most visited historic sites in all of Illinois. 

The proposed upgrade consists of constructing and rehabilitating approximately 5.5 miles of IL 97 from Veteran’s Parkway to IL 97/125 in two sections, with two bridge replacements, geometric improvements, and drainage upgrades.  This project will provide a new expressway for a smooth and safe ride for motorists and will support future investment in the region.

Note: IDOT projects typically have three distinct phases. Phase I (or the project Study) consists of developing the project scope, environmental studies and preliminary design of a project. Phase II (Design) consists of refining the design to develop contract plans and land acquisition. Phase III (Construction) consists of the actual construction of the project.

Study

Construction

IDOT is currently in the design stage (Phase II) for this project. As we make changes, this website will be updated accordingly.

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