Will County Gazette

The Illinois Department of Transportation has declared emergency repairs, resulting in multiple closures on Interstate 80 in Joliet and Rockdale. The right lane on the eastbound 1-80 between Wheeler Avenue and Center Street is closed with reopening anticipated by 5 a.m. on April 8. The eastbound I-80 ramp to northbound Center Street is also closed and expected to reopen by April 11, by the evening rush.

Additionally, northbound Center Street between Meadow Avenue and 1-80, and the left lane on southbound Center Street to eastbound 1-80 are closed. They are anticipated to reopen by April 11 and 5 a.m. on April 8, respectively. The westbound I-80 ramp to southbound Center Street/Meadow Avenue is also closed and is expected to reopen by the evening rush today.

According to Illinois Department of Transportation personnel, crews are diligently working to finalize the repairs. Due to fluctuating temperatures, there could be additional time needed for the concrete to set and gain the required strength before the lanes and ramps can be safely reopened.

With the anticipated heavy congestion, motorists are encouraged to seek alternative routes as local streets cannot support heavy or wide trucks. Other interstate routes are recommended to avoid delays.

Motorists should allow extra time for travel through the affected areas, adhere to the speed limits, and be cautious around flaggers and work zones. Updated traffic and road conditions are available at www.gettingaroundillinois.com. The Illinois Department of Transportation is also reachable via Facebook and X.

Maria Castaneda and Guy Tridgell are contacts for further information at 312.447.1919 and 312.343.1731, respectively.