Jefferson Street Bridge Not Re-Opening In 2020

JOLIET, IL — Joliet residents have had to adjust to the closure of the Jefferson Street Bridge for mechanical repairs since early June. Now ,the drawbridge leading into downtown Joliet will remain closed for the rest of the year. The Illinois Department of Transportation made the announcement Friday afternoon.

State transportation officials said the Joliet drawbridge won't be reopening at any point during the next five months "due to additional needed repairs."

The Jefferson Street Bridge handles eastbound traffic from Joliet's west side.

Since the bridge has been closed, motorists have had to use the McDonough Street Bridge, the Jackson Street Bridge or the Ruby Street Bridge to reach downtown Joliet from the city's west side.

The Jefferson Street Bridge is not the only bridge in the Joliet area shut down.

The Brandon Road Bridge in Rockdale has remained closed the entire year.