Illinois DOT Changes Work Zone Signs to Address Increased Speed Limit

Illinois transportation officials say they’re adding extra safety precautions to work zones around the state after the speed limit was increased on some rural highways.

The (Springfield) State Journal-Register reports motorists are being warned of construction projects with extra signs, including speed indicators. The signs are also being placed further away from work zones to give drivers an earlier warning.

The Illinois Department of Transportation opposed legislation raising the speed limit from 65 mph to 70 mph on some roads. The higher speed limit went into effect in January.

Priscilla Tobias is the department’s state safety engineer. She says it takes drivers 470 feet to come to a safe spot if they’re traveling 70 mph.

The speed limit is lower in work zones.