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Winnebago County: U.S. 20 from Pecatonica to Falconer Road
The Illinois Department of Transportation is presently preparing the preliminary engineering for the reconstruction of the U.S. 20 pavement, from 0.2 miles west of Pecatonica Road to 0.2 miles west of Falconer Road. The proposed pavement improvements consist of reconstruction via rubblization, and outside HMA shoulder widening. Proposed structure improvements include reconstruction of deteriorated culverts and no bridge work is anticipated. Traffic is anticipated to be maintained through staged construction.
As a part of the pavement reconstruction scope, crash data has been studied along this corridor and has identified two intersections that would benefit from geometric safety improvements that include the installation of Restricted Crossing U-Turn Intersections (RCUT). The proposed roadway geometrics will restrict through and left turn movements at U.S. 20’s intersections at Conger Road and Hoisington Road.
In place of the through and left turn movements from the side streets, new median U-turn access points will be added downstream of the side streets to allow the restricted thru movements to be achieved via multiple turning movements. The proposed RCUT design follows the 2014 FHWA Restricted Crossing U-turn Informational Guide.
This website has been created to provide information to the public about the project as the study develops and to facilitate public input by providing a means to ask questions or comment on the project.
IDOT is conducting a Phase I Engineering Study for a 7.5-mile section of U.S. 20 from just west of Pecatonica Road to just west of Falconer Road in Winnebago County. A Phase I study is the first step in the project development process. It looks at existing conditions, identifies safety and traffic issues, considers environmental impacts, and explores possible improvements. This 7.5-mile corridor is a vital east–west connection, carrying both local traffic and regional freight.
Project needs:
- Pavement condition – The pavement on U.S. 20 has exceeded its service life and is in need of repairs at increasing intervals.
- Safety – From 2019 to 2023, there were 194 reported crashes within the project limits. The most common crash types included:
- Rear-end collisions (32%)
- Animal collisions (26%)
- Fixed-object collisions (12%)
- Turning collisions (10%)
- Traffic demand – The corridor carries approximately 14,700 vehicles per day, including significant truck traffic.
- Drainage – Existing roadside ditches and culverts will be analyzed and be brought to current standards.
The study will evaluate roadway improvements, safety enhancements, and traffic management strategies during construction to keep traffic moving while work is underway.
The U.S. 20 Phase I Study is the first step in a multi-phase process:
- Phase I (underway):
- Crash analysis and safety assessment
- Geometry improvement evaluation
- Intersection Improvement assessment
- Traffic management analysis (detour and staging options)
- Environmental and drainage studies
- Right-of-way impact assessment
- Public involvement activities
- Phase II (Future):
- Preparation of detailed design plans
- Right-of-way and utility coordination
- Phase III (Future):
- Construction (timing is dependent on funding availability)
Traffic during construction
Plans for how traffic will be maintained during construction are still under evaluation. More information will be shared once a preferred approach is identified.
What is the purpose of this study?
To evaluate roadway conditions, safety concerns, and traffic operations along U.S. 20, and to identify needed improvements.
What can I expect to see while the study takes place?
Because this is a Phase I study, no construction will occur yet. Instead, residents may notice:
- Survey crews gathering information along the roadway and in adjacent ditches or fields.
- Environmental fieldwork such as drainage reviews, or wildlife surveys.
How will safety be improved?
Potential improvements may include Restricted Crossing U-Turn Intersections (RCUT) at selected locations to improve safety at side road crossings
When will construction begin?
Construction will begin after Phase I and Phase II are complete. The timeline depends on funding availability.
Will property access be affected?
Driveway and business access will be maintained during construction. Temporary lane closures will be staged to minimize disruption.
How much will the project cost?
A project cost estimate is in the process of being evaluated.
Submit comments regarding this project by filling out the electronic Questions/Comments Submittal Form (Include “U.S. 20 from Pecatonica Road to Falconer Road” in the subject line)
If you prefer, you may contact us by mail at:
Illinois Department of Transportation, District 2
Attn: Studies and Plans, Contract #64M19
819 Depot Avenue
Dixon, IL 61021
Learn more about IDOT projects. For IDOT District 2 updates, follow us on Twitter at @IDOTDistrict2 or view area construction details on IDOT's traveler information page on GettingAroundIllinois.com.