Long-Term Wright Street Sidewalk Adjustment and Lane Closure

The Illini Hall replacement project will necessitate a long-term sidewalk adjustment and lane closure on Wright Street. Construction for the new facility is projected to last two years, with the opening of the building anticipated for the Fall 2027 semester.

Covered Walkway Usage

The expansion of the site perimeter to accommodate construction materials, equipment, and vehicles will require pedestrians to be diverted into a new covered walkway along the west side of Wright Street, which will be protected by Jersey barriers on the pavement (as shown above). The walkway entrances/exits will be available from Green Street and John Street. Individuals traveling to campus via the walkway will still be able to access the Main Quad from the crosswalk at Daniel Street (map). Due to the ongoing exterior renovations of Altgeld Hall, please be advised that the east sidewalk on Wright Street, from Alma Mater Plaza to John Street, is currently unavailable.

For your safety, follow all construction signage indicating designated routes. Since temporary traffic flow adjustments are possible due to project activities, remain alert and check all signage regularly. Do not rely exclusively on online maps, as they may not accurately reflect current conditions.

Temporary John Street Closure

To support the initial launch of construction work, John Street will be closed from Wright Street until Friday, August 15, reopening before Move-In week.

Updated Traffic Patterns on Wright Street

Establishing this construction perimeter will also cause new traffic patterns on Wright Street. The southbound right turn–only lane that extends to John Street will be closed—along with sections of the corresponding bike lane. Bicyclists traveling southbound from Green Street will now be expected to flow with traffic immediately when joining this part of Wright Street. As typical, traffic will be maintained from Wright Street to Armory Avenue for bicycles, MTD buses, and authorized vehicles at all times. Businesses and residences along Wright Street can still be accessed from Daniel Street through to Chalmers Street.

Parking Space Removal

Several City of Champaign metered spaces along Wright Street will be taken out of service indefinitely as a result of the project.

Your Assistance Is Greatly Appreciated

Thank you for your continued patience in construction zones and for giving contractors sufficient room to perform this vital work, especially around fencing and barricaded access points. Additional campus-approved closure information is available on the F&S website. For university-related questions, contact Transportation Systems Manager Stacey DeLorenzo,  217-300-1750.