Rockford road construction expands as multiple public works projects move forward

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Construction season is underway in Rockford, with multiple public works projects moving forward across the city, bringing road closures, detours and park improvements over the coming weeks.

City officials said in a Friday Facebook post that work continues on the 11th Street project between Harrison Avenue and Broadway Street, where crews are conducting grading, sidewalk installation and installing new lighting. Daily lane closures are in place from Harrison Avenue to 22nd Avenue.

Water service replacements between Broadway Street and 18th Avenue are complete, and the northern portion of the project, from 18th Avenue to Broadway Street, is open to local traffic. ComEd crews remain on site with flaggers assisting motorists. The roadway between 21st Avenue and 18th Avenue is closed, and drivers are advised to follow posted detours.

Crosswalk signals near Harrison Avenue by Collins Aerospace are also being replaced. Temporary signage is in place, though city officials noted the schedule may be affected by weather conditions.

On the city’s east side, resurfacing is underway on Newburg Road between South Alpine Road and South Mulford Road. The project began March 30, with outside lanes closed in both directions. Drivers should expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes when possible.

Work also continues on Auburn Street between Central Avenue and Main Street, where crews are installing a new water main in the eastbound outside lane. Daily lane closures are in place, and the work is expected to continue through Friday, May 29. Motorists should plan for delays and consider alternate routes.

A reconstruction project on Mason Avenue is scheduled to begin the week of May 4. The project spans from the Illinois Route 251 frontage road to the eastern dead end of Mason Avenue and includes a new drainage swale, storm sewer installation, driveway approaches and a full roadway reconstruction.

Initial work will involve equipment mobilization, vegetation removal and construction layout. Pavement removal and major construction activities are expected to begin the week of May 11. The project is scheduled for completion by June 30.