Will County Gazette

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has announced closures as part of their ongoing project to rebuild the Interstate 80 bridges over Interstate 55 in the Joliet, Channahon, and Shorewood areas. These closures are scheduled for the nights of April 15 and 16, weather permitting, to facilitate the safe removal of steel beams from the I-80 bridge over I-55.

On Tuesday, April 15, starting at 9 p.m., southbound I-55 will be reduced to one lane between Illinois 59 and U.S. 6. At midnight, the westbound I-80 ramp to southbound I-55 will close. The full closure of southbound I-55 at I-80 will occur from 1 to 5 a.m. on Wednesday, April 16. During this period, traffic will be detoured off the expressway at I-80 westbound to Ridge Road southbound, then reenter I-80 eastbound back to southbound I-55. All lanes and ramps are expected to reopen by 6 a.m. on the same day.

Similarly, on Wednesday, April 16, northbound I-55 will be reduced to one lane between U.S. 6 and Illinois 59 beginning at 9 p.m. At midnight, the eastbound I-80 ramp to northbound I-55 will close. Between 1 and 5 a.m. Thursday, northbound I-55 will be fully closed at I-80. Traffic will be rerouted at I-80 eastbound to Houbolt Road northbound, then reenter I-80 westbound back to northbound I-55. This reopening is scheduled for 5 a.m. Thursday, April 17.

"In anticipation of continued I-80 reconstruction, the public should expect lane shifts, overnight lane closures, and significant delays," said IDOT. "Allow extra time for trips and be vigilant in work zones."

Drivers should be alert to road signs and flaggers, adhere to posted speed limits, and remain cautious of workers and equipment in the area. For further information, individuals can visit I80will.org, which offers updates, project photos, and an option to submit questions. Traffic conditions can be checked at gettingaroundillinois.com.