SE Illinois News

Illinois State Rep. Dave Severin recently participated in a discussion regarding upcoming construction projects to improve interstate highways near the newly opened Franklin County Courthouse. 

In a May 25 Facebook post, Severin shared details from his meeting with officials and stakeholders to discuss construction projects on I-57.

"Maintenance and improvement to I-57 is critical to Illinois' future economic growth and sustainability," Severin wrote in his Facebook post. "Part of that work means expanding exits where we can to help rural areas achieve increased economic opportunities. Today, I joined Sen. Bryant and Sen. Fowler, officials from IDOT, Franklin County and Benton to discuss future construction projects on this most vital of interstate highways at the newly opened Franklin County Courthouse. Officials working together at the state and local level to improve and expand this federal asset ... that's critical #SouthernIllinoisProgress if you ask me!"

According to IDOT, this development project combines four related projects to rebuild a crucial regional freight route. The redesign will include two new flyover ramps, eastbound I-74 to northbound I-57 and westbound I-74 to southbound I-57 and a third supporting lane will be added to both directions of I-74 between Prospect and Duncan Roads.

Illinois Sen. Dale Fowler spoke on the expansion of I-57 in December 2021, according to SE Illinois News. 

"Too many times on this stretch of roadway people have died or have been seriously injured in multiple crashes," Fowler said. "We have a responsibility to recognize these highly congested areas that pose serious risk to those on our roadways to not only make sure that travelers make it home to their families this holiday season but in all walks of life as well. By investing in Illinois infrastructure, we are investing in jobs. We're investing in our local economy, which will continue to put Southern Illinois on the map for many years to come."

Severin had something to say about the expansion of I-57 as well in December 2021, SE Illinois reported.

“Serving as state representative is a full-time job that means being responsive to the many diverse needs of your district and showing up for the people you represent. This week, I was proud to join IDOT officials in my hometown of Benton for the next phase of the I-57 expansion,” Severin said. "This is what investing in hard infrastructure truly looks like."