(WSIL) -- A project proposal is in the early stages for upgrades to approximately 23 miles of Illinois Route 13/127 from Murphysboro to Pinckneyville.

The Illinois Department of Transportation says the project would aim to expand the highway from two lanes to four, beginning at the Ava Road intersection in Jackson County and ending north of Pinckneyville in Perry County. It includes an eastern bypass of Vergennes and a western bypass of Pinckneyville, with interchanges at Illinois Route 152 and Illinois 154.

Officials said the project will enhance safety and efficiency while improving system continuity and regional access. It addresses significant gaps in the National Highway System between southern Illinois and the St. Louis area.

The need for this upgrade stems from highway system con

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