Route 47 Construction Begins in Woodstock

Two-year project to add lanes, improve traffic flow and pedestrian access along busy Illinois corridor

Apr. 18, 2026 at 3:11pm

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A colorful, minimalist 3D illustration depicting a conceptual view of the Route 47 construction project in Woodstock, Illinois, with new traffic lanes, a raised median, and a mixed-use path.An artist's rendering of the planned improvements to Illinois Route 47 in Woodstock, which aim to ease traffic congestion and enhance safety and accessibility for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.Woodstock Today

After years of planning, construction has officially begun on a major overhaul of Illinois Route 47 in Woodstock. The $84 million project will add a lane in each direction, install a raised median, and build a mixed-use path along the 2-mile stretch between U.S. Route 14 and Illinois Route 120. While some disruptions are expected, the city is working to minimize impacts on the approximately 150 businesses located along the construction route.

Why it matters

The Route 47 corridor is a critical commercial artery for Woodstock, home to many local businesses. The improvements aim to ease traffic congestion, enhance safety, and improve multimodal transportation options in the area. However, the construction will pose challenges for nearby shops and restaurants, prompting the city to establish a relief fund to support impacted small businesses.

The details

The project will add one lane in each direction of Route 47, separated by a raised median, and install a mixed-use path on the east side of the roadway. New sanitary and storm sewers, as well as other utility upgrades, will also be completed. While one lane in each direction will remain open, detours will be required at certain intersections during construction of roundabouts. The city is working closely with the contractor to maintain driveway access to businesses along the route as much as possible.

  • Construction began in April 2026 and is expected to last approximately two years.
  • Temporary traffic lights were installed in the first week of construction.
  • New water main installations and other utility work will take place over the summer of 2026.

The players

City of Woodstock

The local government overseeing the Route 47 construction project and working to support impacted businesses.

Woodstock Chamber of Commerce

Representing the interests of local businesses affected by the construction.

Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)

The state agency responsible for funding and managing the majority of the Route 47 project.

Congressman Bill Foster

The U.S. Representative for Illinois' 11th congressional district, who attended the groundbreaking ceremony.

Mike Turner

The Mayor of Woodstock, urging residents to continue supporting local businesses during construction.

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What they’re saying

“Don't change your buying habits. Your continued support will make a real difference for our small businesses during this time.”

— Mike Turner, Mayor of Woodstock

What’s next

The city plans to raise additional funds through private contributions to the Route 47 Relief Fund, which provides temporary grants to eligible small businesses impacted by the construction. IDOT also has plans for a future 3-mile extension of the improvements north of Illinois Route 120, but funding for that phase has not yet been secured.

The takeaway

The Route 47 construction project is a major undertaking that will modernize a critical commercial corridor in Woodstock, but it also poses significant challenges for local businesses. The city's efforts to support impacted shops and restaurants, along with the community's commitment to continue patronizing them, will be crucial to ensuring the long-term vitality of this area.