IDOT Secretary Announces $22.8 Million Upgrade of US Route 51

Section Will Improve Safety, Promote Economic Development and Create 300 Jobs

ASSUMPTION- Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig was joined today by state and local officials to announce roadway improvements to upgrade US Route 51 to a four lane expressway and provide a bypass to the east of Assumption. The project is expected to create 300 jobs.

“This important roadway improvement will stimulate the local economy, improve safety, increase traffic capacity and provide better access to businesses, including the headquarters of Grain Systems and Sloan Implement,” Secretary Hannig said. “US 51 is a critical corridor through Central Illinois and its improvement will help farms, businesses and residents throughout the region.”

The 3.98 mile stretch of roadway is located between Pana and Decatur, just1.5 miles north and 1.4 miles south of Assumption. A new 4 lane expressway upgrade will expand traffic capacity, promote economic growth along the corridor and improve safety as vehicles will now be separated by a 50 foot median.

The scope of work consists of earth excavation, grading, lime modified soil, hot mix asphalt full depth pavement, hot mix asphalt shoulders, aggregate base course, bituminous concrete box culverts, pavement marking, signage, lighting, traffic control, seeding and additional miscellaneous improvements..

The project costs an estimated $22.8 million and is expected to be complete in the summer 2012. The project is supported by a mix of federal and state funds.

For more information about other road construction in IDOT’s District Six, please visit http://www.dot.state.il.us/projects.html#District_6