Donuts, hot beverages and information about a multimillion, multiyear construction project was front and center during “Coffee with the Crew” on Nov. 9 in Rockford’s Forest City Corporate Center. The event was one of several ways to engage the public about the extensive rebuild of Interstate 39 in the Rockford area.

“Coffee with the Crew” is one of several opportunities created by Rebuild I-39 project team to allow the public to engage with engineers and construction personnel. Attendees gained insights about into the project and had their questions answered. Attendees also viewed boards noting the project details and learned about the new project website, www.rebuildi39.com. In addition to “Coffee with the Crew,” the project team will hold open house events in communities along the construction zone to inform the public about the project’s progress.

The $247.6 million Rebuild I-39 project focuses on an approximately 4-mile stretch from Harrison Avenue to the north to the U.S. 20 interchange to the south, a vital transportation artery for northern Illinois that links communities, industries, manufacturing hubs and travelers across the region. Work began in July on the $98.8 million I-39 and U.S. 20 interchange.



Overall, the project will improve interchanges, reduce congestion and increase safety. The entire project is anticipated to conclude by the end of 2027.