New Bridge Coming to Old Plank Road Trail

NEW LENOX, IL - A new bridge will soon be installed for users of the Old Plank Road Trail in New Lenox.

The bridge over Interstate 80 that’s been in commission for more than 50 years will be replaced with a new one that will be higher and wider, according to a news release shared by Reconnect with Nature. The Illinois Department of Transportation will take two weeks beginning this month to construct what will be a 227-foot bow truss structure.

"The new bridge will be much lighter in appearance," said Ralph Schultz, chief operating officer for the Forest Preserve District of Will County. "Trail users will have a unique opportunity to view motorists and commerce moving along one of America's great cross-country interstates, and highway travelers will be able to see the runners, walkers and cyclists who are enjoying the trail."

Users of the trail won’t be affected, though. The current bridge - a 171-foot two-span structure - won’t be demolished until the new one is complete.

The improved bridge is part of IDOT’s plan to rework the I-80/Route 30 interchange in New Lenox.

Site work on the $1.4 million project will begin overnight sometime during the week of April 17.

Photo courtesy of Forest Preserve District of Will County