The Illinois Department of Transportation announces that work will begin on Illinois Route 17 in Mercer County later this month. The project will start Monday, August 20, about 5 miles west of Joy. The upgrade involves replacing the bridge that carries Illinois 17 over the Edwards River as well as pavement resurfacing. Lane closures to accommodate the work will begin in September, and one-way traffic will be controlled by temporary signals. The project is expected to be complete by August 2020. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. To avoid the work area, when feasible, use of alternate routes should be considered. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.