New Traffic Pattern For Outbound I-55, Route 53 As Construction Continues

BOLINGBROOK, IL — Lane changes are scheduled on outbound Interstate 55 at Route 53 as a new traffic configuration begins, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced Monday.

The new traffic pattern is scheduled to begin on outbound I-55 starting on Friday, as part of the ongoing reconstruction of the I-55 bridge over Route 53, according to IDOT.

Lane closures will start at 9 p.m. on Thursday to facilitate the change. The ramps will not be impacted by the stage change, and at least one outbound lane will remain open at all times. The lanes that were closed overnight will reopen by 5 a.m. Friday, when a new traffic pattern will be in place, IDOT said.

In the new traffic pattern, there will continue to be three outbound lanes and ramps remain the
same. The three outbound I-55 lanes approaching Route 53 will split, according to IDOT.

The two right outbound lanes will shift slightly to the right onto the new pavement, while the left outbound lane will remain shifted over to the inbound side, separated by a barrier wall, and will merge back over to the outbound side after the bridge, IDOT said in a release.

During this stage of construction, there will be no shoulders throughout the work zone on both directions of I-55. Entrances, exits and inbound I-55 will remain the same.

The new configuration will allow work to continue on the outbound portion of the bridge and will remain in place through the end of the year, IDOT said.

Motorists should continue to expect lane shifts, overnight lane closures and significant delays
and to allow extra time for trips through this area. Alternative routes are encouraged. 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 construction is part of a $17.7 million project, which consists of replacing the existing I-55 bridges over Route 53 and Joliet Road with new wider structures, new deck overlays and approaches, resurfacing and new lighting.

Work at I-55 over Illinois 53 is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

The bridge replacements for I-55 over Joliet Road are anticipated to begin later this year and completed in 2024, IDOT said.