Joliet, IL – A section of Theodore Street has been shut down after road buckling forced emergency traffic closures Monday afternoon in Joliet.
According to the Joliet Police Department, Theodore Street is closed between Dearborn Street and Nicholson Street as of 3:45 p.m. Monday due to pavement damage. Officials cited road buckling as the cause and confirmed the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is responding to the issue.
Photos released by police show significant concrete upheaval in the middle of the roadway, with a police vehicle blocking westbound access and traffic backing up on the eastbound side. A “Road Construction Ahead” sign was also visible near the affected section.
Authorities are urging motorists to avoid the area and use alternate routes until the hazard can be addressed. No injuries or vehicle damage had been reported in connection with the pavement failure as of late Monday.
Joliet Police have not given an estimate for when the street will reopen, and it remains unclear what caused the road surface to shift. However, similar incidents are commonly linked to extreme heat and underlying structural weakness.
IDOT crews are expected to assess the damage and begin repairs as soon as conditions allow. Additional updates are expected through city traffic advisories and police channels.
Motorists are advised to follow posted detour signs and remain alert for ongoing construction and repair work in the area.
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 for more relevant new stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
