Key Takeaways
- The Interstate 80 interchange ramps at Center Street/Meadow Avenue in Joliet are scheduled to close after the evening rush on Monday, Dec. 22, weather permitting.
- The closures are necessary to reconstruct and reconfigure the interchange at I-80 and Center Street.
- Detours will direct traffic to U.S. 6, Larkin Avenue (Illinois 7), and Jefferson Street (U.S. 52).
- The overall I-80 project aims to redesign and rebuild 16 miles of the interstate, adding or extending auxiliary lanes to improve safety and reduce congestion.
- The projected $1.3 billion project is anticipated to be substantially complete by the end of 2028.
Introduction to the I-80 Interchange Closure
The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced that the Interstate 80 interchange ramps at Center Street/Meadow Avenue in Joliet are scheduled to close after the evening rush on Monday, Dec. 22, weather permitting. This closure is a necessary step in the ongoing efforts to rebuild and modernize I-80 from Ridge Road in Minooka to U.S. 30 in Joliet and New Lenox. The interchange at I-80 and Center Street is one of six that are being rebuilt as part of this project, which aims to improve safety and reduce congestion on the interstate.
Details of the Closure and Detours
The closure of the interchange ramps at Center Street/Meadow Avenue will require drivers to take detours to access I-80. Traffic will be directed to U.S. 6, Larkin Avenue (Illinois 7), and Jefferson Street (U.S. 52). The interchange ramp from eastbound Meadow Avenue to eastbound I-80 will remain open, but it is anticipated to close for repairs in fall 2027. The public should expect lane shifts, overnight lane closures, and significant delays, and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to flaggers and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, and be on the alert for workers and equipment.
The Overall I-80 Project
The overall I-80 project aims to redesign and rebuild 16 miles of the interstate from Ridge Road in Minooka to U.S. 30 in Joliet and New Lenox. The project will add or extend auxiliary lanes to improve safety and reduce congestion, and will rebuild or improve interchanges at I-55, Illinois 7, Center Street, Chicago Street, Richards Street, and Briggs Street. A new flyover ramp will be built to link southbound I-55 to eastbound I-80, improving traffic flow and safety. More than 30 bridges will be rehabilitated or replaced, including those over the Des Plaines River. The projected $1.3 billion project is anticipated to be substantially complete by the end of 2028, with landscaping, bridge demolition, and miscellaneous work extending into 2029.
Staying Informed and Up-to-Date
For more information on the I-80 project, the public can visit the mobile-friendly website at I80will.org. The website features project information, photos, and the ability to submit questions and comments to the project team via a "Contact" link. Traffic and road conditions can be found at www.gettingaroundillinois.com. The Illinois Department of Transportation can also be followed on Facebook and X for updates and information on the project. By staying informed, drivers can plan their routes and allow extra time for trips through the affected area, minimizing disruptions and ensuring a safe and smooth commute.
Conclusion and Future Plans
The closure of the interchange ramps at Center Street/Meadow Avenue is a significant step in the ongoing efforts to rebuild and modernize I-80. While the closure may cause disruptions and delays, it is a necessary step towards improving safety and reducing congestion on the interstate. The Illinois Department of Transportation is committed to keeping the public informed and up-to-date on the project’s progress, and encourages drivers to plan their routes and allow extra time for trips through the affected area. With the projected completion date of 2028, the I-80 project is expected to bring significant improvements to the interstate, making it safer and more efficient for drivers.
