State starts work on I-55 interchanges, I-80 bridges

The Illinois Department of Transportation this week announced construction starts this spring on several local sections of Interstate 55, including advance work for a new interchange at Route 59 and a new interchange at Interstate 80.

IDOT also will begin work on I-80 bridges in Joliet.

The advance work for a new I-55 interchange at Route 59 will eventually improve access to 263 acres being developed for the future Rock Run Crossings development.

“We’re working in tandem with what they’re doing on the interchange,” said Anaise Berry, spokeswoman for Cullinan Properties, which is developing the Rock Run Crossings site.

Berry said Cullinan recently issued a request for proposals for a second phase of excavation on the Rock Run Crossings site, which is planned for a mix of retail, restaurant, entertainment, hotel, office, residential and warehouse development.

I-55 at Route 59

A new bridge will be built this year for the future diverging diamond interchange at Route 59. Three lanes of I-55 will be maintained in both directions during construction.

I-55 from I-80 to Jefferson Street

The interchange at I-55 and I-80 will be rebuilt into a diverging diamond interchange. Auxiliary lanes will be added on both sides of I-55. Three lanes of I-55 in both directions will be maintained during construction. The project is scheduled to begin in the fall with completion in fall 2023.

I-55 bridges between I-80 and Weber Road

Rehabilitation of three bridges at U.S. 30, Canadian National Railroad and Mink Creek. Two lanes of I-55 will be maintained between the bridges during construction. Overnight lane closures are anticipated. Construction is scheduled from spring to fall.

I-55 from from River Road to the Illinois & Michigan Canal

Lanes will be resurfaced with rumble strips added to shoulders. The project will include overnight and weekend lane closures. Constructions goes from spring to fall.

I-55 at Route 53 and Joliet Road

Bridges will get new decks and be widened. Three lanes in both directions will be maintained during construction, but overnight lane closures are expected. Construction runs spring to fall.

I-80 bridges in Joliet

Eastbound I-80 bridges will be replaced or rehabilitated at Hickory Creek, Richards Street and Canadian National Railroad/Rowell Avenue. The same will be done at the westbound bridge at Richards Street. Two lanes in both directions will be open during construction. The eastbound I-80 ramp to Richard Street will close during a second stage of construction. Construction begins in spring with completion scheduled for fall 2022.

Overall, IDOT plans to spend more than $140 million on seven projects in Will County, including a resurfacing project on Routes 1 and 394 in the eastern part of the county.