Inspections on I-80 bridges over Des Plaines River begin May 5

CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today routine inspections of the Interstate 80 bridges over the Des Plaines River, in Joliet, will begin, weather permitting, Monday, May 5.

To complete the inspections, daily lane closures will be required, starting with the westbound bridge until May 12, when inspections begin on the eastbound bridge. Inspections on both bridges are expected to be complete by May 16, weather permitting.

To minimize the impact to traffic, the closures will take place between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday and Saturdays, if necessary. A minimum of one lane in both directions will remain open during inspections.

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

The replacement of the Des Plaines River bridges and larger improvements to I-80 in Will County are a cornerstone project in Gov. JB Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois capital program, which will invest $33.2 billion in transportation infrastructure across all modes throughout the state.

For more information visit I80will.org. The mobile-friendly website features project information, photos, and the ability to submit questions and comments to the project team via a “Contact” link. Find traffic and road conditions at www.gettingaroundillinois.com. You also can follow IDOT on Facebook and X.

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