IDOT ANNOUNCES UPGRADE 74 FINALE EVENT

Update: Nov 8, 2006 (7:23 am)

Peoria, IL -

Time capsule to be buried to mark end of major construction activities

With the end of major construction activities for Upgrade 74 less than two weeks away, IDOT announced today a finale event to mark the conclusion of the multi-year project. On Monday, Nov. 20, IDOT will join with local dignitaries and community leaders to seal a commemorative time capsule. Filled with Upgrade 74 and community memorabilia, the time capsule will be buried in Riverfront Park near the Murray Baker Bridge in Peoria. Once buried, the Upgrade 74 time capsule will be left undisturbed until 2056.

“After more than 1,400 days of construction, we are extremely excited to celebrate a project that has completely transformed the Peoria area,” said Joe Crowe, Deputy Director of Highways, Regional Engineer. “The Upgrade 74 time capsule will ensure the preservation of this momentous part of Illinois history for future generations.”

The time capsule celebration will begin at 10 a.m. and is open to the public.

While major construction activities will end on Nov. 17, minor activities, including landscaping, will continue through late Spring 2007. Work zone speed limits will be in effect during the work for the safety of motorists and workers.

Project information is available at www.upgrade74.com. Motorists can also call 866-I-74-NEWS (866-474-6397) to receive construction updates. Upgrade 74 is the complete rehabilitation of I-74 from East Peoria through Peoria. This is the largest construction project ever undertaken in downstate Illinois.