Joliet, Illinois – Chicago Street will be reduced to one lane in each direction beginning next week as crews begin improvements at the Interstate 80 interchange, triggering temporary traffic impacts in central Joliet.
According to I-80 Will County officials, the work is part of a broader modernization project aimed at improving safety, traffic flow and access to I-80. The Chicago Street Interchange upgrades are included in the final stretch of the multi-year I-80 reconstruction, which is scheduled for completion in 2028.
Officials said Chicago Street will be reduced to one lane in each direction for approximately one month while crews build temporary pavement to prepare for future detours. The lane reduction will affect the stretch between McDonough Street and Doris Avenue.
Drivers traveling through the interchange area near downtown Joliet and the Des Plaines River should expect slower travel times and possible congestion during peak commuting hours.
The Illinois Department of Transportation is overseeing the reconstruction in coordination with I-80 Will County. Officials encourage motorists to plan ahead and allow additional travel time while the temporary configuration is in place.
The project represents a significant phase in the long-running effort to rebuild and modernize the heavily traveled I-80 corridor through Will County.
This corridor is widely used by commuters, freight traffic and local residents accessing downtown Joliet.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook and support local independent news.
Have a tip? Message us.
