PEORIA, IL -- Reconstruction of Illinois 8 in East Peoria will be under way this week and motorists are advised to be alert to lane closures and changing traffic patterns.

The two-year, $9.3 million project calls for the widening of Illinois 8 to five lanes from Rosedale Road and Oakwood Road. Traffic delays are expected for the duration of the project.

When completed Illinois 8 will have two lanes in each direction with a bi-directional center turn lane. Additionally, right turns lanes will be constructed at Brookview Road, Carver Lane, Farmdale Road, Illini Drive and Oakwood Road.

Other features of the project include the construction of a closed storm sewer drainage system, new traffic signals at major intersections, installation of a box culvert at a Farm Creek tributary, and retaining walls.

Motorists are encouraged to find alternate routes of travel to avoid traffic delays. The Department reminds motorists to slow down and be alert while driving through the work zone. Minimum fine for traffic violations in work zones is $200.

The first phase of the Illinois 8 reconstruction is scheduled for completion in late November. The entire project will be completed in September 2004. R.A. Cullinan & Son, Inc. of Tremont is the contractor on the project.

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