Brandon Road bridge repairs continue into 2026

CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that a project to repair the Brandon Road bridge over the Des Plaines River, in Joliet, will continue into 2026 as additional time is needed to complete the work. ​

“The moveable bridges in Joliet are nearly a century old, with unique parts and maintenance needs,” said IDOT Region 1 Engineer Jose Rios. “We appreciate your continued patience as we deliver this project as safe and efficiently as possible.”

The majority of the project is now anticipated to be complete and the bridge reopened next summer. The detour routing traffic to McDonough Street via U.S. 6, U.S. 52/Illinois 53 and Laraway Road will remain in place until then.

The bridge initially closed in late 2023 to refurbish the motors and mechanical components. While construction was underway, the need for unforeseen additional repairs were discovered, including the replacement of all four motors and aerial cables that require custom-made fabrication. ​

The $3.4 million project is repairing the deck, joints and brakes on the 93-year-old bridge, replacing various mechanical components, locks and structural steel. Additionally, as part of upgrading the downtown Joliet movable bridges to allow them to be controlled from a central location, new control systems are being installed, along with various other upgrades.

The public can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Alternate routes are encouraged. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to flaggers and signs in all work zones, obey the posted speed limits and be on the alert for workers and equipment.

“While repairs along the Brandon Road bridge continue, significant progress has already been made on the project,” said state Sen. Rachel Ventura (D-Joliet). “When the bridge reopens, it will be complete with much-needed repairs and modernizations, and these updates are essential for the safety and efficiency of all traffic moving through the area.”

Over the next six years, IDOT is planning to improve 7,107 lane miles of highway and 8.4 million square feet of bridge deck as part of Rebuild Illinois, which is investing $33.2 billion into all modes of transportation. Accomplishments through Year Six of Rebuild Illinois include almost $20.8 billion of improvements statewide to 21,309 lane miles of highway, 815 bridges and 1,181 additional safety improvements.

For more information on IDOT projects, click here. Find traffic and road conditions at www.gettingaroundillinois.com. You also can follow IDOT on Facebook and X.

# # #