Jackson Street Bridge Is Closing Longer Than You Would Like

JOLIET — One of the unwritten laws on the books in Joliet is that the city's drawbridges over the canal are not allowed to properly operate all at the same time. The people around Joliet are used to congestion traffic and waiting in traffic has become an important part of Joliet's daily life.

On Friday, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced that the Jackson Street bridge over the Des Plaines River in Joliet will close for approximately three weeks beginning, weather permitting, Monday, Sept. 16.

The closure is necessary for electrical work and miscellaneous mechanical repairs on the bridge.

A detour will direct traffic to Scott Street (Illinois 53), Ruby Street (Illinois 53) and Broadway Street (Illinois 53). Eastbound motorists will also use Chicago (Illinois 53) and Ottawa streets to reconnect to Jackson Street.

IDOT said that people can expect 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.

For more information on IDOT projects, click here. Find traffic and road conditions at www.gettingaroundillinois.com. You also can follow IDOT on Facebook and X.