Illinois 40 bridge at I-80 closes Oct. 8

BUREAU COUNTY – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that weather permitting, repairs to the Illinois 40 bridge crossing Interstate 80 in Bureau County will begin at 7 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8.

The work will require a full closure of the bridge, and traffic is advised to seek alternative routes. There also may be some ramp impacts. The repairs are anticipated to be completed by 7 p.m.

Traffic is currently using the original structure, which has been reduced to one lane of traffic controlled by temporary traffic signals. Work is ongoing to replace the structure, starting with the northbound lane of the bridge. Once that side is completed later this year, traffic will relocate to the new structure and the old structure will be demolished and rebuilt. The $9.9 million project, which includes the installation of new lighting, is anticipated to be completed in summer 2027.

Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zone areas, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.

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 Seven of Rebuild Illinois include $25.6 billion of improvements statewide to 24,498 lane miles of highway, 959 bridges and 1,475 additional safety improvements.

For IDOT District 3 updates on X, follow us at @IDOTDistrict3. View area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map at www.GettingAroundIllinois.com.