Joliet, IL – Drivers traveling through the I-80 corridor in Joliet should prepare for long-term traffic impacts as bridge construction on the new Interstate 80 project brings lane reductions to U.S. 6 beginning this week.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), starting Wednesday, July 15, U.S. 6 will be reduced to one lane in each direction between McDonough Street and east of Brandon Road near Interstate 80.
The long-term lane closures are necessary so construction crews can safely build a new bridge pier for the future I-80 bridge over U.S. 6 and the Des Plaines River, a key component of the ongoing I-80 reconstruction project in Will County.
Officials said the lane reductions are expected to remain in place through the end of the year, with traffic delays and periodic slowdowns likely, particularly during peak travel times.
According to IDOT, motorists should plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and use caution while traveling through the construction zone. Drivers are encouraged to reduce speeds and remain alert for changing traffic patterns and construction workers.
The improvements are part of the larger I-80 Will County modernization project, which aims to rebuild and expand one of northern Illinois’ busiest freight and commuter corridors.
Additional construction activities, lane shifts, and traffic impacts are expected as work progresses throughout the multi-year project.
