(WREX) — The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has announced that three long-term, multi-million-dollar construction projects will kick off Monday, Aug. 11, targeting high-traffic stretches of U.S. 20, Illinois Route 2, and Illinois Route 26 in northern Illinois. Weather permitting, these projects will span months — with some continuing into 2026 — bringing significant roadway upgrades and safety improvements.

U.S. 20: Boone & Winnebago Counties

The first project focuses on U.S. 20, from the Kishwaukee River near Cherry Valley to Wheeler Road west of Belvidere.

• Budget: $2.4 million
• Timeline: Aug. 11 – Nov. 1, 2025
• Scope: Milling, resurfacing, and guardrail upgrades.
• Traffic Impact: Two lanes in each direction will remain open throughout the project.

IDOT emphasized that this work complements the ongoing I-39/90 project, which stretches from the I-39 interchange to the Harrison Avenue interchange and is expected to continue through the end of 2027.

Illinois Route 2: Winnebago County

The second project targets a nearly five-mile stretch of Illinois Route 2 from north of Roscoe Road to Prairie Hill Road, affecting communities in Rockton and South Beloit.

• Budget: $2 million
• Timeline: Aug. 11 – Oct. 31, 2025
• Scope: Patching, milling, resurfacing, and traffic signal upgrades.
• Traffic Impact: Two lanes open during construction to minimize delays.

Illinois Route 26: Ogle County

The most extensive project will take place in Ogle County along Illinois Route 26, running from the southern city limits of Forreston to the Illinois Route 72 junction northwest of town.

• Budget: $4.3 million
• Timeline: Two phases — 2025 through early June 2026.
• Scope:
  • Phase I (2025): Pavement repairs and ADA pedestrian facility upgrades.
  • Phase II (2026): Full roadway resurfacing.
• Traffic Impact: Daily lane closures with flagger control.

Safety Reminder from IDOT

In a public advisory, IDOT reminded motorists:

"In these and all work zones, drivers should pay close attention to changed roadway conditions and watch for signs in the areas. Use extra caution, especially around active workers and equipment, by slowing down and keeping eyes on the road at all times."

Why These Projects Matter

These upgrades are part of a broader statewide investment in transportation infrastructure, aimed at improving safety, reducing maintenance costs, and extending the lifespan of Illinois’ critical roadways. The combined $8.7 million investment will also bring modernized guardrails, upgraded traffic control systems, and improved accessibility for pedestrians.

For local drivers and freight carriers, the improvements are expected to reduce vehicle wear, improve traffic flow, and enhance safety for years to come.

Originally reported by 13 WREX.