Two WGIL listeners noticed something along the US-34 and US-150 corridor in Galesburg and wanted to know what was going on.
“What’s with all the trees coming out by the US-150/US-34 exchange? They’re clearing ALL of those trees out.”
“Got to say, the changes along Highway 34 are quite noticeable. Haven’t heard anything about it specifically. What information can you provide?”
WGIL turned to Aaron Gavin, Director of Public Works for the City of Galesburg, who forwarded information from the Illinois Department of Transportation.
Gavin confirmed the project belongs entirely to IDOT — the city has no involvement.
According to IDOT, all cedar trees were removed from the interchange area due to their invasive reseeding nature. Invasive brush — including bush honeysuckle and autumn olive — was also removed. Native trees in the area were left in place, though IDOT notes there were not many natives remaining.
The reason for the work goes deeper than aesthetics. IDOT says the area is planted in high-quality prairie and is designated as a high-acreage prairie restoration location. The goal is to fully restore native prairie in the corridor.
The project also aims to protect the Rattlesnake master plant, which is present in all four infields of that area and is critical habitat for a moth listed on the threatened and endangered species list.
Looking ahead, IDOT says crews will spot-spray teasel plants in coming years. This spring, native trees will be planted along the US-34 westbound ramp from Carl Sandburg Drive and at other locations along the corridor.
Beyond the interchange, IDOT also has a future project planned to reshape ditches along US-34 to address drainage and maintenance issues — another reason for the increased activity in the area.
Have a question about Galesburg? Email news@wgil.com — we may answer it in a future Your Questions Answered segment.
