Champaign's $8.5M South Mattis Avenue Project Begins

Road closure and detours in place for 8-month construction project.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:04am

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a collection of construction materials and tools arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conceptually representing the abstract ideas of urban infrastructure and civic investment.A conceptual still life capturing the materials and planning behind Champaign's major infrastructure project on South Mattis Avenue.Champaign Today

The City of Champaign has announced the start of an $8.5 million construction project on South Mattis Avenue from Windsor Road to Curtis Road, which will include new concrete pavement, curb and gutter, storm sewers, street lighting, on-street bike lanes, and a multi-use path. The road will be closed for the entire 8-month project duration, with detours in place, though neighborhoods and businesses along Curtis Road will still be accessible.

Why it matters

This major infrastructure investment aims to improve traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and connectivity in a key commercial corridor of Champaign. The project is funded through a combination of local and federal dollars, demonstrating the city's commitment to upgrading its transportation network.

The details

The construction work, contracted to William Charles Construction of Rockford, will begin on April 13 and is expected to be completed by December. During the closure, detours will be marked, but neighborhoods and businesses along Curtis Road will still be accessible via Duncan Road or Prospect Avenue.

  • Construction is scheduled to begin on April 13, 2026.
  • The project is expected to be completed in December 2026.

The players

City of Champaign

The local government overseeing the $8.5 million infrastructure project on South Mattis Avenue.

William Charles Construction

The Rockford-based construction company contracted to carry out the South Mattis Avenue project.

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What’s next

The city has advised that during the 8-month closure, detours will be clearly marked, and access to neighborhoods and businesses along Curtis Road will be maintained via Duncan Road or Prospect Avenue.

The takeaway

This major infrastructure project on Champaign's South Mattis Avenue demonstrates the city's commitment to improving traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and connectivity in a key commercial corridor, despite the temporary inconvenience of an 8-month road closure.