Colona, Ill. – The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) confirmed that the railroad crossing on Illinois 84 between Poppy Garden Road and U.S. 6 will be closed for rail‑replacement work beginning Wednesday. BNSF Railway crews are on site to remove the existing rail and install a new one, a routine safety measure intended to keep the crossing reliable for both motorists and train traffic.
Detour routes and driver guidance
While the crossing is closed, IDOT has posted a detour that directs drivers to travel east on Poppy Garden Road, turn south onto Green River Road, and then re‑enter U.S. 6 to continue their journeys. Motorists are advised to expect delays and to plan for additional travel time, especially during peak commuting periods.
Work schedule and expectations
The rail‑replacement project is slated to be completed by Thursday, giving crews roughly two days to finish the removal and installation. IDOT officials emphasized that the short timeline reflects the efficiency of the BNSF crew and the importance of restoring normal traffic flow as quickly as possible.
Safety and community impact
Closing a railroad crossing, even temporarily, is a precautionary step to protect both drivers and train operators. By removing the rail and installing a new one, the crossing will meet current safety standards and reduce the risk of future service interruptions. Local residents and commuters are encouraged to follow posted signage and to remain patient while the work proceeds.
Additional information
For real‑time updates, motorists can check the IDOT website or follow local traffic alerts on KWQC. The department will monitor the situation and provide further notices if the schedule changes. Residents who have questions about the detour or the project can contact the IDOT district office serving Henry County.
As the work concludes on Thursday, traffic will return to normal at the Illinois 84 crossing, restoring the direct route between Poppy Garden Road and U.S. 6 for the community.
Original reporting: KWQC TV6 Davenport (local) — read the source article.
