Elwood, IL – Drivers in Will County should prepare for detours this weekend as the Mississippi Avenue railroad crossing in Elwood closes for repairs.
According to the Elwood Police Department and Elwood Fire Protection District, the Union Pacific Railroad will shut down the Mississippi Avenue crossing between Douglas Street and Matteson Street beginning Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. The road will reopen Monday, October 20, at 7:00 p.m.
During this 24-hour period, both eastbound and westbound lanes will be closed to all traffic. Crews will complete necessary repair work on the railroad crossing infrastructure. Local officials urge drivers to follow posted detour signs and exercise caution near workers and construction equipment.
A designated detour route will guide motorists along Route 53 north to Manhattan Road, west on Manhattan to Brandon Road, south on Brandon, and south on South Chicago Street back to Mississippi Avenue. Message boards and signage will be in place to alert drivers in advance of the closure.
Residents and commuters are encouraged to plan alternate routes ahead of time and allow for extra travel time during the closure.
