Update: Joliet's Ruby Street bridge is open
Update 1/28/2026: The Ruby Street bridge is open to traffic.
Ruby Street bridge over Des Plaines River in Joliet closed for emergency repairs
CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that Ruby Street (Illinois 53), bridge over the Des Plaines River, in Joliet, is closed for emergency repairs. The closure is necessary to replace equipment and electrical components that failed yesterday afternoon.
The evaluation of the necessary repairs is ongoing. A more definitive timeline for when the bridge can reopen will be announced later.
Motorists should follow the posted detours:
- Westbound detour (all traffic): Collins Street (Illinois 171), 9th Street (Illinois 7 in Lockport) and Illinois 7/Illinois 53.
- Eastbound traffic detour: via Theodore Street (Illinois 7), Plainfield Road (U.S. 30), Center Street, Jefferson Street (U.S. 30) and Ottawa Street (Illinois 53).
- Eastbound Truck detour: via Theodore Street (Illinois 7), Larkin Avenue (Illinois 7), U.S. 6 (Railroad Street), McDonough Street (U.S. 52) and Chicago Street (Illinois 53).
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.
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.
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Maria Castaneda
Guy Tridgell
