'Significant Deterioration' Closes Libertyville Bridge

LIBERTYVILLE, IL – The Rockland Road bridge over the Des Plaines River will be closed for emergency repairs, village officials said. The Illinois Department of Transportation recommended the immediate closure Thursday afternoon after a recent inspection determined the existing steel truss system had significant levels of deterioration. The bridge will be closed until emergency repair work is completed.

"The closure of the bridge is occurring in order to ensure public safety," according to a news release from the village of Libertyville.

While the bridge is closed, there will be signs posted showing the detour routes. Motorists are directed to Route 176 (East Park Avenue) for crossing the Des Plaines River.

Libertyville officials said the effected portion of the steel truss is not integral to the structural stability of the bridge and is predominantly decorative. So, is anticipated that the bridge will be reopened once the truss is removed.

"The bridge will be reconstructed as soon as possible," according to village officials. "The bridge reconstruction will be funded with by Federal grants with local investment match funding from Libertyville Township and the village of Libertyville."

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