[3] As part of the Upgrade 74 reconstruction project in 2005, the span's length was shortened to 3,036 feet (925 m) to make room for new entrance ramps on the west side of the river.

By removing traffic from the work zone, the repairs were completed in just one construction season, reducing the overall project cost and eliminating a safety risk to workers and motorists.

[3] Following extensive renovations, the Murray Baker Bridge rehabilitation was completed on schedule and reopened to the public on October 31, 2020.

[5][3] The project, one of the first under Governor Pritzker's historic, bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital program, improved the critical travel corridor by closing the work zone to all traffic for seven months instead of multiple construction seasons.

[3] As part of a joint effort with the City of Peoria, energy-efficient decorative lighting was added to enhance a community focal point.