MACHESNEY PARK - (WIFR) Stopped traffic on Route 173 in Machesney Park can be frustrating if you're trying to get to some of stores in the area. A new construction project aims to clear the congestion by widening the stretch of roadway from just west of Smythe Road to just east of Alpine.

"It's about time. It's gonna be a mess as far as traffic, but in the long run it will be worth it," Driver, Gary Sadewater said.

The plan widens the road to two lanes each direction and adds more defined turn lanes at each intersection.

"It's kind of hop-scotched. There are one-lanes and there are two-lanes in certain directions, but this new design is completely new concrete pavement,” I-DOT Project Engineer, Masood Ahmad said.

"It's gonna make it much more accessible for them to get to our businesses which means sales tax revenue for us. And believe me, every city can use more sales tax revenue," Village President, Tom Strickland said.

And it's also supposed to create nearly 30 construction jobs. The 15 million-dollar project is part of the state's jobs now program. But before the work begins, project and village leaders are asking for public comment so any concerns can be addressed. So far, the village has received positive feedback and many drivers are ready for it to start.

"It can only get better. It can't get too much worse right now. So I think it will be a great improvement," Driver, Leonard Sparaco said.

The improvements are also expected to reduce crashes on this busy road.

Bids for the project go out next March. Construction will begin Summer 2011 for this stretch of roadway and end by Fall.

Village leaders said with a new TIF incentive through the state, they are eligible to receive funding to put in sewer and water lines by I-90 and Rt. 173 that can attract more businesses. The hope is Rt. 173 will look similar to East State Street in the coming years.