Joliet, IL – Drivers traveling westbound on Interstate 80 between Interstate 55 and Ridge Road should prepare for overnight lane reductions this week as crews shift traffic onto newly completed pavement.
According to I-80 Will, the work is part of the ongoing reconstruction of I-80. Beginning at 9 p.m. Wednesday, westbound traffic will be reduced to one lane in the work zone. All lanes are expected to reopen by 6 a.m. Friday.
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) said two westbound lanes will move to brand-new pavement once the shift is complete. The left shoulder will remain closed through fall, and crews will continue periodic right shoulder closures for landscaping and electrical work.
The adjustment was originally scheduled earlier this week but was postponed to Thursday due to scheduling changes, officials said. Weather permitting, the new traffic pattern will be in place by the Friday morning commute.
IDOT urges drivers to slow down, stay alert, and use caution while traveling through the construction zone. The agency reminds motorists that work zones carry reduced speed limits and that workers are present during overnight hours.
The I-80 project is part of a larger multi-year initiative to rebuild and modernize one of the state’s busiest freight and commuter corridors. Once completed, the improvements are expected to ease congestion, enhance safety, and extend the life of the roadway.
Motorists can follow I-80 Will on social media or check travel alerts online for the latest updates on construction schedules and traffic changes.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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