New phase of Interstate 80 construction begins Monday in Will County. Here's what to expect

The new phase of construction won’t wrap up until 2025 or 2026, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Starting Monday, drivers in suburban Will County should brace for potential delays as Interstate 80 enters a new phase of its major revamp. This is part of an ambitious $1.3 billion reconstruction effort aiming to rebuild and expand a 12-mile section of the highway, stretching from River Road in Shorewood to Wheeler Avenue in Joliet. This update comes directly from the Illinois Department of Transportation.

As crews set up their work zone and adjust traffic lanes, there will be overnight lane closures in the upcoming weeks. Motorists should be prepared for these changes and plan their travel accordingly, anticipating possible longer travel times and slower traffic flow during this construction phase.

New phase of Interstate 80 construction begins Monday in Will County
The new phase of construction won't wrap up until 2025 or 2026, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Starting the week of April 1, you can expect overnight lane closures on I-80 in both directions between Rowell Avenue and Gougar Road, from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. The following week, beginning April 8, the focus shifts to westbound I-80 between River and Ridge roads, with closures from 9 p.m. to 6 p.m. for lane shifting onto temporary pavement.

Then, in the week of April 15, overnight closures will impact both directions between River and Ridge roads, from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. During this time, eastbound I-80 traffic will be rerouted to the westbound lanes, separated by concrete barriers.

Be prepared for additional disruptions later in the spring as the work zone extends from River Road to Wheeler Avenue, resulting in more lane closures, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation.

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