Traffic
Joliet, IL Traffic Alert: Water Street Closures Underway at I-80
Joliet, IL – Drivers traveling near Interstate 80 in Joliet are facing new traffic restrictions as phased closures along Water Street get underway this week, with construction expected to disrupt loca
By Nora Whitfield · 2026-10-14T14:35:32.586Z
Joliet, IL – Drivers traveling near Interstate 80 in Joliet are facing new traffic restrictions as phased closures along Water Street get underway this week, with construction expected to disrupt local travel for up to 16 weeks.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation IDOT and the I 80 Will reconstruction project, the closures began Monday, Oct. 12, as crews prepare to relocate electrical, water and sanitary sewer utilities ahead of future bridge construction over the Des Plaines River.
The project involves two separate closure phases affecting Water Street between I 80, Lucas Street and Shelby Street.
During Phase 1, Water Street will be closed to traffic between I 80 and Lucas Street. Motorists will be directed along a posted detour using Edward Street and River Street.
During Phase 2, the closure will shift to Water Street between Lucas Street and Shelby Street. Drivers will instead follow a detour using South Des Plaines Street and Lucas Street.
Each phase is expected to last approximately three to four weeks, although the full sequence of utility relocation work could take 12 to 16 weeks.
Construction crews will first relocate electrical infrastructure before proceeding with water and sanitary sewer work.
The restrictions could affect motorists traveling through the surrounding neighborhoods and those accessing nearby portions of the I 80 corridor.
Drivers should watch for temporary traffic signs, follow designated detour routes and allow additional travel time, particularly during busy commuting periods.
The closures are part of the larger I 80 reconstruction effort aimed at improving infrastructure along the heavily traveled interstate.
Motorists can find additional construction updates, project information and traffic guidance at I80Will.org or contact the project hotline at 1 844 480 4255 .