New I-80 Bridge At Briggs Street: Work Begins Soon

JOLIET, IL — The Illinois Department of Transportation announced Thursday that a project to replace the bridge carrying Briggs Street over Interstate 80, in Joliet, will begin, weather permitting, Monday, June 19. The project is part of advance work leading to the $1.2 billion reconstruction of I-80 through Will County.

IDOT said that Briggs Street will remain one lane in each direction, with lane widths reduced to 11 feet and no shoulders over the bridge. Motorists should also expect shoulder and occasional overnight lane closures on I-80 at the bridge during that time.

The $7.3 million project, which involves replacing the existing bridge with a new structure to accommodate the widening of I-80, is anticipated to be completed in late 2024.

Motorists 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.

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.