SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is holding a public hearing on a proposed project to improve Springfield’s most dangerous intersection, Dirksen Parkway and Sangamon Avenue.
The hearing is at Northfield Center, 3280 Northfield Drive, from 4 to 6 p.m. on Nov. 12.
Here’s what to know.
Most dangerous intersection
The intent is to increase safety and mobility for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians at the intersection.
A Feb. 11 State Journal-Register story cited the intersection as having the greatest number of crashes–509–from 2013 thru 2023. Second on that list was MacArthur Boulevard and Lawrence Avenue with 349.
What and who will be available
Attendees will be able to learn more about the project through exhibits, displays and fact sheets. IDOT staff and consultants will be available to discuss the project and answer questions individually, though there will be no formal presentation.
What work is expected to be done?
As part of the improvement, dual left turn lanes in all directions will be installed with dual right turn lanes for westbound motorists on Sangamon turning onto northbound Dirksen.
Concrete medians will be put into place in all directions to help manage traffic flow and enhance safety. The project also includes upgrades to sidewalks, traffic signals, lighting and drainage systems.
Increased traffic
City of Springfield officials have said in the past that commercial development, particularly on Dirksen north of Sangamon, as well as the expansion of Sherman, has generated more traffic.
An Amazon distribution hub opened at Dirksen and Bissell Road last month.
How much will the project cost?
The total project cost is estimated to be approximately $24 million. The estimated construction cost portion is $18 million. An additional $6 million is estimated for engineering, land acquisition and any necessary utility relocation.
Funding for construction is included in the state’s FY 2026-2031 Multi-Year Highway Improvement Program.
When will the project start?
Construction is anticipated to begin in the 2027-2028 construction season.Â
Have comments?
Comments may be submitted at the Nov. 12 meeting or sent to Jay Edwards, Project Engineer, Illinois Department of Transportation, District 6, 3215 Executive Park Drive, Springfield, IL 62703. The e-mail is jay.edwards@illinois.gov.
More information
Visit idot.illinois.gov.
Contact Steven Spearie: 217-622-1788; sspearie@sj-r.com; X, twitter.com/@StevenSpearie.
This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Changes have been proposed to improve Springfield’s most dangerous intersection
Reporting by Steven Spearie, Springfield State Journal-Register / State Journal-Register
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