SIKESTON - The Illinois Department of Transportation is alerting motorists traveling Interstate 57 of an upcoming interstate closure.

Beginning Tuesday, Aug. 16, the I-57 bridge over the Mississippi River spanning from Missouri to Illinois will be closed to north and southbound traffic. The closure is anticipated to be in place three days, as IDOT's contractor makes repairs to the bridge.

Marked detour routes will be in place for north and southbound traffic. Detour routes include:

Northbound: I-55 in Missouri, Missouri 74 (through Cape Girardeau), IL 146, IL 3, I-57.
Southbound: IL 3 (Exit 1), IL 146, Missouri 74 (through Cape Girardeau), Interstate 55

Due to the high volume of traffic, the marked detour is expected to be congested with probable delays. Motorists are encouraged to seek an alternate route. Motorists are urged to use caution when traveling in the area and should observe all message boards and detour route signage.

The Dorena-Hickman Ferry is an additional detour option. For more information about the ferry, please visit:http://www.dorena-hickmanferryboat.com/

For additional information about the upcoming closure, please contact IDOT Construction Engineer Keith Roberts at (618) 351-5253 or MoDOT's Customer Service Center at 573-472-5333.