Traffic changes underway at I-39 and Kishwaukee River bridge in Winnebago County

WINNEBAGO COUNTY – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that work is underway to shift northbound Interstate 39 traffic onto the southbound I-39 bridge crossing the Kishwaukee River south of Rockford. The traffic shift is needed to perform repairs to the northbound I-39 Kishwaukee River bridge.

Work will shift one lane of northbound I-39 traffic to the southbound lanes at the crossovers located at each end of the bridge. Also, southbound I-39 traffic will be reduced to one lane in the vicinity of the bridge. The traffic shifts are anticipated to be completed late next week.

Once the work to switch traffic to the new pattern is completed, one lane in each direction will run across the southbound I-39 bridge. The 20 tons gross weight limit restriction will be lifted and the ramp from Baxter Road to northbound I-39 will be reopened. The restrictions were previously in place to ensure the safety to the traveling public and prevent further damage to the structure after a late July inspection identified some critical issues requiring repair.

Repairs on the northbound I-39 bridge are anticipated to be completed in early spring. The public can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. To reduce backups, motorists are encouraged to use both lanes to the merge point and take turns merging when directed by message boards. In addition, motorists are encouraged to use an alternate route of Illinois 72, Illinois 251 and Bypass U.S. 20 to reduce delays.

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 IDOT District 2 updates, follow us on X at @IDOTDistrict2 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.