IDOT announces it will build third sound wall in north Peoria

Update: Nov 30, 2006 (12:13 pm)

Springfield, IL -

Project upgrade result of working with legislators, listening to community

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) announced today it will construct a sound wall on the southeast side of Sterling Avenue along I-74 as part of the Upgrade 74 project. The sound wall is being built as part of IDOT’s overall commitment to reducing interstate noise for local residents.

“Upgrade 74 is about improving the community, and we are committed to addressing quality-of-life issues that result from our construction projects,” said IDOT Secretary Timothy W. Martin. “I want to thank the local legislators, especially Senator George Shadid, for working with IDOT to come up with a solution for families in his area that live along I-74.”

During the planning phase of Upgrade 74, IDOT examined the feasibility of constructing a sound wall along the interstate near Sterling Avenue. As a result of a residence miscount by an IDOT consultant during the initial phase of the project in 2000, the area did not meet IDOT specifications for noise wall installation. IDOT was informed of the error in August 2005, and has since met with homeowners and legislators to resolve the issue, and is moving forward with plans to construct a sound wall in the area.

“Balancing the needs of a community with the requirements of progress is always a challenge,” said Sen. Shadid (D-Peoria). “Building this sound wall is an important step to ensure Upgrade 74’s position as the preeminent example of public and government cooperation.”

IDOT estimates that the new sound wall will cost approximately $1 million. Design work and site coordination must take place before a construction contract is put out to bid. Based on funding availability, construction could begin in fall 2007 and would take approximately six to eight months.

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.