As construction season gets underway across Southern Illinois, state and local leaders are emphasizing safety for both roadway workers and the traveling public.
CARBONDALE, Ill. — As construction season gets underway across Southern Illinois, state and local leaders are emphasizing the importance of safety for both workers and the traveling public as crews return to roadways throughout the region.
Carrie Nelsen, P.E., District 9 Program Development Engineer for the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), recently visited E.T. Simonds Construction to discuss the upcoming construction season and the continued investment in infrastructure across the southern part of the state. District 9 includes the 16 southernmost counties, where a wide range of roadway and bridge improvements are planned or already in progress.
Nelsen highlighted the importance of coordination between IDOT, contractors, and local communities to ensure projects are delivered efficiently while minimizing disruption to daily travel. She also emphasized that safety remains a top priority as work increases across highways, interstates, and local roads.
Construction activity is already visible across Southern Illinois, with crews working on a variety of projects that will continue throughout the spring and summer months. Current work includes pavement improvements along US 51 in Carbondale, ongoing resurfacing projects across multiple counties including Williamson and Jackson, and continued investment in major corridors such as Interstate 57 near Mt. Vernon.
Crews are also supporting bridge and structural improvements across key transportation routes throughout the region. With more work zones becoming active, officials are reminding drivers to use caution when traveling through construction areas.
“Slow down, stay alert, and put distractions aside when traveling through work zones. Everyone plays a role in making sure people go home safe at the end of the day,” said Beck Simonds of E.T. Simonds Construction.
“We spend a lot of time training our people to work safely and look out for one another on every job site,” said Beck Simonds of E.T. Simonds Construction. “As construction season ramps up, we’re asking the public to do the same.”
Each year, construction season brings increased investment in infrastructure that supports regional mobility, economic activity, and long-term growth across Southern Illinois. While these projects are critical to maintaining and improving the transportation system, they also require patience and awareness from drivers navigating active work zones.
State and local partners say the shared goal remains clear: deliver high-quality infrastructure improvements while keeping both workers and the public safe throughout the construction season.