JEFFERSON COUNTY – Motorists on Interstate 57 should be prepared for an overlap in construction projects in the coming weeks.

Currently the Illinois Department of Transportation is completing pavement repairs on southbound I-57 from just north of Illinois 161 to the Jefferson County Line. This project is expected to be completed sometime in mid-March.

Shortly before that time, another phase of construction will begin on March 13 that will be the second step in replacing the bridge at Dix will begin.

These construction projects are parts of a larger project to fully reconstruct I-57 and will include many additional lane closures.

The times and locations of the future restrictions will be announced as the project continues. The entire project is to be completed by spring of 2025.

Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction signage, consider alternate routes, and refrain from using mobile devices while approaching and traveling through the work zone.