June 2025 Luncheon Recap
Luncheon Recap
The Marion Chamber of Commerce welcomed members and guests to its June 10th Membership Luncheon at The Pavilion, offering attendees a packed agenda filled with updates, recognitions, and community celebration.
Chamber Chair Toni Perkins opened the event, leading the Pledge of Allegiance before inviting Pastor John Holst from Zion United Church of Christ to deliver the invocation. Following the introduction of the luncheon sponsor, SI Roofing and Siding, Perkins introduced the featured speaker, Carrie Nelsen, Program Development Engineer with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).
Nelsen provided a comprehensive update on roadway improvements and infrastructure projects across Southern Illinois. Her presentation highlighted major investments, including Rebuild Illinois funding and the six-lane expansion of I-57, the Route 13 upgrade, and the construction of new roundabouts to improve traffic flow and safety. Attendees appreciated the engaging overview of both current and upcoming projects impacting the region’s roadways.
After the IDOT presentation, Chamber leadership shared several important updates and recognitions:
Program
Summary
Carrie Nelsen, the Program Development Engineer at Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) discussed current and future roadway projects in the southern 16 counties of Illinois. In 2024, $375 million in road and bridge contracts were awarded to contractors, with $275 million already awarded in 3 of 7 bid lettings in 2025. There is over a billion dollars of active construction projects underway in Southern Illinois.
Topics
Rebuild Illinois and Road Fund Allocation
Carrie Nelsen highlights the significant investments being made through the Rebuild Illinois (RBI) program, funded by increased gas taxes and vehicle registration fees enacted in 2018. These resources are dedicated exclusively to improving road infrastructure. ,
I-57 Six-Lane Expansion Projects
The I-57 six-lane expansion is 52 miles long from the I-24 & I-57 interchange south of Marion to I-64 in Mt. Vernon. This project is with one of the key projects of the Rebuild Illinois program.
The I-57 six-lane expansion in the Benton area (MP 66 to MP 75) to just south of Rend Lake is almost done, and completion is expected by June 30. The final contract was bid in December 2024 in the Rend Lake area and scheduled for completion in December 2028. The project is designed to improve safety and traffic flow by adding a lane in each direction, widening the median shoulder, upgrading guardrails, improving drainage, removing hazards from the clear ozone, improving signage and adding new pavement markings as well as reflective pavement markers.
While some sections of the expansion are nearing completion, others remain in progress. To minimize disruptions to daytime traffic, much of the construction takes place at night, allowing two lanes to remain open during peak hours. This scheduling ensures safety and smoother traffic flow, but it also presents logistical challenges—especially for road builders who must work overnight on any work operations that require material deliveries to the work zone.
So, the next time you find yourself traveling through the I-57 work zone and traffic is flowing, instead of complaining that this project is taking too long, take a moment to appreciate the crews working tirelessly in the dark to build one of the most important roadways in Southern Illinois. Their dedication is shaping a safer, more efficient highway for all of us.
IL Route 148 and Old IL Route 13 Roundabout Construction and Safety Benefits
A new roundabout is being constructed at the intersection of IL 148 and Old IL 13. This project was funded by safety dollars due to a history of crashes, including a pedestrian fatality. The roundabout will replace existing traffic signals and is designed to improve traffic flow. Construction will be completed in phases, with half of the roundabout built at a time. This will be accomplished using temporary signals and a one lane configuration on IL 148 to manage traffic. Roundabouts offer significant safety benefits by slowing all traffic down at the intersection, including a 90% reduction in fatalities and a 35% reduction in overall crashes.
IL Route 37 and Wildcat Road Roundabout Project and IL 37 improvement south of Marion
The IL 37 project includes widening shoulders, grading ditches, enhancing safety, and the construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Route 37 and Wildcat Drive. A $16.37 million contract has been awarded to E.T. Simons for the work. The roundabout construction is going on now and contract specifications require Wildcat Drive to be open by August 8, 2025. The roundabout is specifically designed to accommodate large trucks and oversized loads. The roundabout slows all traffic down, ensuring safe and efficient traffic flow at the intersection. Most of the construction south of Wildcat drive will take place in 2026 and 2027 with utility relocations underway in 2025.
IL 13 Crab Orchard Lake Project and Multi-Use Path
The IL 13 six-lane expansion project includes adding a traffic signal at Cambria Road, a new lane in each direction, adding a multi-use path, and widening the causeway across Crab Orchard Lake. The low bid was $41 M and the low bid contractor was Samron Midwest Contracting. Construction will begin with building crossovers and working on the westbound lanes, with a one-lane in each direction traffic configuration beginning this summer to September 2026. The project also features a multi-use path on the south side of the lake that will connect two existing segments of the Crab Orchard Greenway. This path will provide a valuable resource for pedestrians and cyclists. The entire project scheduled for completion by August 2028.
IL13 Traffic Signal Modifications and Pedestrian Safety
Modifications are planned for the traffic signals at the intersection of Halfway Road and IL 13, including lengthened mast arms and the addition of left turn arrows. The project will also add a pedestrian crossing equipped with push buttons to enhance safety for those crossing IL 13. Improving pedestrian safety is a key focus, especially in high foot-traffic areas. This project is included in the June letting, with traffic signal equipment expected to take six to nine months to procure.
Stiritz Road Overpass Replacement
Due to the age of the structure, the I-57 overpass at Stiritz Rd is being replaced. The overpass will be closed for approximately one year with an estimated project cost of $5.5 million. The project is scheduled to be bid on the June 13, 2025 bid letting.
Herrin Road extension
IDOT is working on plans to extend Herrin Road from the Cambria Road roundabout to the Walker’s Bluff Casino. This project involves crossing a floodplain and acquiring the necessary land. IDOT is currently in the land acquisition phase, with offers being made to property owners. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 or 2028, depending on the time it takes to acquire the land needed for the project.
Roundabout at Long Street and IL Route 37
A roundabout is planned for the intersection of IL 37 and Long Street to reduce severe injury crashes. The project also addresses sight distance issues and involves building in a challenging location. We are currently drawing the parcel sketches and land acquisition negotiations with property owners will be underway in 2026. The project is funded with safety dollars and will include chicaning—curved roadway approaches—to slow IL 37 traffic before entering the roundabout. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 or 2028, depending on the time it takes to acquire the land needed for the project.
IL 37 and Boyton Intersection Improvements
Improvements are planned for the IL 37 and Boyton/Hendrickson intersection, including widening the radii, relocating utilities, enhancing traffic flow, new traffic signal equipment, sidewalks, and curb and gutter. This effort is part of a broader initiative to rebuild urban areas and upgrade local infrastructure. This project requires propose right of way and complex land acquisition. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 or 2028, depending on the time it takes to acquire the land needed for the project.
Herrin Road Interchange at Johnson City
The Herrin Road & I-57 interchange project in Johnson City includes the construction of a teardrop roundabout and a multi-use path to enhance traffic flow and safety. With an $8 million budget, the project also involves rebuilding the bridge and ramp terminal intersections. Currently in the design phase, the project requires acquiring a small amount of property between the ramps and Prosperity Ave to complete the sidewalk system.
I-24 Ohio River Bridge Painting Project
A painting and maintenance project is under construction for the I-24 Ohio River Bridge, which includes painting, new expansion joints, bridge painting, and new Microsilica concrete bridge deck. The project will require lane closures on I-24 during the 2025, 2026 and 2027 construction seasons. To encourage quicker completion, a $2 million incentive has been offered to the contractor to expedite work and complete the project in 2026. Travelers are advised to plan trips during off-peak hours to avoid delays and congestion. This maintenance is essential to ensure the long-term safety and usability of the bridge.
Carrie also took questions from the audience and discussed ways to create driver awareness to best navigate these construction zones.
Program Slides / Resources
Content shared is the ownership of the presenter and is current as of the date of the presetnation.
Chamber Updates
Grad Spree Highlights
The Chamber celebrated another successful Grad Spree, a long-standing tradition offering a safe and fun environment for local graduates. This year’s celebration included a silent disco, escape bus, hypnotist, obstacle course, bowling, and more—thanks to the support of numerous sponsors, volunteers, and community partners. Next year will mark the 40th anniversary of this beloved event.
2025 Scholarship Winners Recognized
The Marion Chamber Foundation honored its 2025 scholarship recipients:
Owen Misner, recipient of the John A. Logan College Tuition Waiver, plans to pursue business studies.
Emma Sprague, winner of the $1,500 Grad Spree Scholarship, will attend Murray State to study advertising and design.
Maya Massetto, the first recipient of the new $1,000 Trades Scholarship, will apprentice with the Plumbing and Pipefitters Union 551.
Chamber Announcements & Recognitions
Executive Director Karen Mullins was recognized for completing her first year of Institute of Organization Management training, a prestigious professional development program for nonprofit leaders.
Members were reminded to attend the upcoming SI Made Expo on July 19th, and the 41st Annual Chamber Golf Scramble on September 19th. Early bird team registration is open through July 1.
Attendees were encouraged to check out marionillinois.com for the latest Chamber and community event updates.
Program Slides / Resources
Welcome New Members
J. D. Drew, Attorney at Law
Jason Drew
Website Link
Member Impact
Jennifer Mick welcomed several new retailers to the Chamber’s Discover Marion e-card program, including Glaciers End, Walt’s, and Majestic Enterprize. Members were also reminded about the quarterly 2025 DOT Chamber Display Agreement_by Quarter, available now for $750 per quarter.
Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings and Celebrations:
One Stop Paint & Decorating – June 26 (Ribbon Cutting at 3 PM)
Banterra Bank – 50th Anniversary Celebration, July 18 (Noon)
Little Egypt Arts – 30th Anniversary Open House & Ribbon Cutting, July 18 (4:30 PM)
Business Advocacy
Sandra Mann invited members to submit feedback on business concerns via a survey link in the Chamber’s eNews. That feedback will help shape future programs and advocacy efforts. Members were also encouraged to attend the Regional Legislative Summit on August 21st, which will feature updates from local, state, and federal leaders.
Luck of the Draw
Executive Director Karen Mullins closed out the luncheon with the always-anticipated Luck of the Draw, sponsored by Peoples National Bank. The prize pot rolled over once again, adding to the excitement for next month’s drawing.
