Work on the Wabash River Bridge in Mt. Carmel is scheduled to last another 45 days. That’s the word this morning from Illinois Department of Transportation Construction Engineer John Nava-Sifuentes of the IDOT District #7 office in Effingham. According to Nava-Sifuentes, the project consists of “applying an epoxy to the wearing surface to make the bridge last longer”. He said Stage 1 of the project should wrap up by the end of next week at which time the lane closure will switch to the westbound lane. Nava-Sifuentes said crews are aware of motorist delays and asked for drivers to exercise patience in their commutes.

Mt. Carmel Police Chief Mike McWilliams released a statement asking motorists to adhere to the traffic signals and the traffic stop lines when approaching the bridge. He said motorists are crossing the white lines, where the sensors are located, causing both sides to stay on red.

“This morning, traffic was backed nearly to 9th Street with morning commuters trying to get to work. MCPD assisted these motorists by providing traffic control; however, it is imperative that motorists follow the traffic signals, including the white stop lines, to keep the lights functioning properly,” McWilliams said.

He finished by saying “MCPD will do our best to assist traffic when needed but please follow these rules to keep everyone safe and traffic moving as best we can”.

Another traffic headache is scheduled to begin Thursday as the Cherry Street Bridge will be closed and traffic will be detoured around Poor Farm Road. IDOT says that Illinois 1 between 11th and 12th streets in Mount Carmel will close for the removal of the bridge over an abandoned railroad starting tomorrow. The existing bridge has concluded its life cycle. Rather than building a new bridge, it is more cost-efficient to replace the existing bridge with a road. Benefits include a long-term cost savings and less time for Illinois 1 to be closed. A detour will be posted utilizing North Market Street/College Drive and 1550th Boulevard. Work is expected to be complete by mid-August