Lake Forest, IL – Drivers in Lake Forest should expect detours today as the Western Avenue and Deerpath Road grade crossing has been shut down for emergency repairs, potentially impacting travel through the upcoming holiday weekend.
According to the Lake Forest Police Department, Union Pacific ordered the immediate closure early Thursday due to urgent roadway issues at the rail crossing. Crews are currently assessing the area, and police said the crossing will “likely be closed until Saturday, November 29, or Sunday, November 30,” depending on repair progress.
The shutdown affects a key connector used by commuters traveling between downtown Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and surrounding Lake County communities. Police are urging drivers to use Westminster or Illinois Road as alternates until the crossing reopens. Additional congestion is expected during peak commute times.
Police noted that they will release more information once they receive additional guidance from Union Pacific. For now, no official reopening time is confirmed.
Despite the closure, the city emphasized that the shutdown will not impact the Treelighting Ceremony scheduled for Friday, November 28, a major annual event that draws families to the downtown area. Attendees are still encouraged to allow extra travel time due to the detours in place.
Residents who regularly travel through the Western/Deerpath intersection are advised to plan ahead and consider using local side streets to avoid delays.
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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