Joliet's Wheeler Avenue Bridge Over I-80 Ready To Reopen: IDOT

JOLIET, IL – A bridge that transports traffic along Wheeler Avenue over Interstate 80 is scheduled to reopen on Friday as work to allow for the widening of the expressway is nearing its completion, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced on Thursday.

The $5.7 million project that was made possible by Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois capital program, is part of advance work leading to the $1.3 billion reconstruction of I-80 through Will County, IDOT said in a news release.

Work began earlier this spring to replace the bridge with a new wider structure that will accommodate the widening of I-80 under the bridge, officials said. The project also included new storm sewers and ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps.

Despite the reopening, which will take place weather-permitting on Friday, local drivers can expect delays as work continues along I-80 and should allow extra time while traveling through this area, IDOT said. Motorists are encouraged 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 will redesign and rebuild 16 miles from Ridge Road, in Minooka, to U.S. 30, in Joliet and New Lenox, while adding or extending auxiliary lanes to improve safety and reduce congestion. Interchanges will be rebuilt or improved at Interstate 55, Illinois 7, Center Street, Chicago Street, Richards Street, and Briggs Street, with a new flyover ramp linking southbound I-55 to eastbound I-80 to improve 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.