Illinois 89 Bridge in Spring Valley Opens to Traffic

SPRING VALLEY — The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that the newly constructed Illinois 89 bridge over the Illinois River will open to traffic Monday, June 18, weather permitting. The two-lane bridge connecting Putnam and Bureau counties will provide safer, more efficient travel for motorists throughout the region.

"Ensuring a more reliable trip across the river will bring more economic opportunity and a better quality of life for residents in an important part of our state," said Illinois Transportation Secretary Randy Blankenhorn. "This project is a great example of IDOT's and Gov. Rauner's commitment to our bridges and their value in connecting communities and keeping us safe."

Construction started in February 2016 on a new, wider structure consisting of one lane in each direction. The bridge features eight-foot shoulders designed to enhance safety in the event of vehicle breakdowns as well as to improve access for emergency personnel and first responders. The bridge also allows room for pedestrians and cyclists to travel across the Illinois River, one of the state's top tourism draws.

The $41 million project involves replacing the old bridge with a structure running parallel to the existing alignment. Constructed in 1934, the old Illinois 89 bridge is in poor condition and scheduled to be demolished this summer.

Additional work will be necessary to complete the project, primarily the removal of the old Illinois 89 alignment and the ongoing realignment of the approaches to the new bridge. Traffic on the north end of the bridge still will be restricted to one lane controlled by temporary traffic signals for the next several weeks. The overall project will wrap up late this year.

Motorists should continue to follow all work zone rules, including paying close attention to flaggers and signs, obeying the posted speed limits and staying alert for workers and equipment.