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Last updated 5:52 pm CT November 20, 2009.
Multi-Million Dollar Project Almost Complete
"Almost two years to the date and $16 million later, we're here to celebrate," said IDOT Assistant Secretary David Phelps.
The new interchange is a mile south of the I-57 interchange with Route 15, it is designed to ease congestion. While the road isn't open yet two new medical facilities have already been built, they're the first of what the city hopes will be many businesses in the area.
"The interchange opens up opportunities for not only Mt. Vernon but Jefferson County and the state of Illinois and the Southern Illinois region," said Mt. Vernon Mayor Mary Jane Chesley.
The new interchange will allow for 600 acres of future economic development, it's the proposed sight for a new hospital. Governor Pat Quinn was on hand for the ribbon cutting, citing this project as one that took a team to put together.
"I think a key part of growing our state economy is good transportation and this interchange is gonna help with economic development," said Quinn.
IDOT is now waiting to stripe the lanes and install traffic lights. Officials hope the road will be open sometime in the next two weeks.
By Ryan Kruger
rkruger@wsiltv.com
Now: 1258768032
