IDOT studies transportation improvements between Waterloo and Murphysboro

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

ILLINOIS (KBSI) – The Illinois Department of Transportation is studying potential improvements along Illinois routes 3, 154 and 13/127 between Waterloo and Murphysboro.

The Southwest Connector Planning and Environmental Linkages Study will examine ways to reduce travel times, improve safety, support freight movement and strengthen connections between southwestern Illinois communities and the St. Louis metropolitan area.

Potential improvements could also provide greater access to jobs, schools, health care and recreational opportunities.

The study team is reviewing transportation needs, possible solutions and public feedback. Options will be evaluated based on mobility, safety, access, community goals, construction feasibility and cost.

A Planning and Environmental Linkages study considers transportation, environmental, community and economic concerns early in the planning process. Its findings may be used during future environmental reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act.

Residents may submit comments through the project’s interactive study area map. Feedback categories include traffic, safety, accessibility, economic development, environmental concerns, hazards and road or bridge conditions.

The study began in 2025 and is expected to continue through 2027. A final report will be submitted to IDOT and the Federal Highway Administration.