Traffic patterns to change as ‘Rebuild I-39’ construction enters Phase III

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — The Illinois Department of Transportation hosted an open house meeting in Rockford to provide updates on the reconstruction of I-39.

The meeting included displays, factsheets, and guidance on how to navigate the “diverging diamond interchange” at Harrison Avenue, a system that requires drivers to switch from the right side of the road to the left, and back again.

The Rebuild I-39 project is now in its third phase of construction, part of an effort to reduce congestion and create safer conditions for drivers at the interchange.

Wayne Phillips, of Hutchison Engineering, said, “Mid-to-late March, we’ll be going into the next phase of this construction project and where we’ll actually be crossing the traffic over, and that point we’re asking for patience from the traveling public to assist us in getting through this, this next stage. At some point, we will have lane closures, and hopefully maybe not even full roadway closures, but definitely be lane closures.”

The project is part of a $302 million dollar effort that is set to be completed by the end of 2027.

It includes:

• I-39 at Harrison Avenue. This $35 million project will convert the interchange from a cloverleaf to a safer modern diverging-diamond design. Other improvements include replacing the I-39 bridges and expanding Harrison Avenue from South Mall Drive to Mill Road. The project starts in 2024 and ends in late 2025.
• I-39/Bypass U.S. 20 to Harrison Avenue. This $92.3 million project will expand the road from four to six lanes with an auxiliary lane. The project also will replace several bridges. Work is anticipated to begin in 2025 and wrap up by the end of 2027.
• Bypass U.S. 20 from Mill Road to the Kishwaukee River. This $21.5 million project includes expanding Bypass U.S. 20 from four to six lanes, improving the intersection with Mill Road and replacing the bridges crossing the Kishwaukee River. Work is expected to begin in 2025 and conclude in 2026.

According to IDOT, “The I-39 corridor in Rockford serves as a vital transportation link, facilitating the movement of goods, supporting industrial development, and contributing to the economic vitality of the region. Its intersection with I-90 creates a key interchange, connecting Rockford to national transportation networks and positioning the city as a significant transportation hub.  ”