Traffic shift and lane closures planned for I-355 bridge repairs starting April 8
The Illinois Tollway announced on April 7 that long-term shoulder closures and traffic shifts will begin this week on the Veterans Memorial Tollway (I-355) as part of a bridge repair project. The work, which will continue through late fall, includes lane reductions and changes in traffic patterns between 127th Street and International Parkway.
The scheduled repairs are important to maintain the safety and reliability of the I-355 bridges over the Des Plaines River and Bluff Road. The agency said electronic message signs and construction signage will be used to alert drivers about upcoming lane closures and traffic shifts, with updated information available through the Illinois Tollway’s Daily Construction Alert. All work is weather dependent.
Starting Wednesday, April 8, traffic in both directions on I-355 is set to shift toward the inside lanes. During off-peak hours, lanes may be reduced to two in each direction while crews complete bridge deck, beam, parapet, abutment, approach slab repairs, joint work, bearing replacements as well as pavement and shoulder repairs. This configuration is expected to last into summer before additional shifts occur through fall.
Lane closures are being coordinated with several agencies including the Illinois Department of Transportation; Canadian National Railway; Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway; Army Corps of Engineers; Illinois Environmental Protection Agency; Cook County; DuPage County; Will County; Forest Preserves of Cook County; Forest Preserve District of Will County; Village of Lemont; Village of Woodridge; local fire departments; and police departments.
In addition to structural repairs between I-80 and Army Trail Road in Will, Cook, and DuPage Counties during 2026, other improvements include installation of CCTV cameras, sign panels, lighting repairs, drainage improvements, pavement marking—all part of the seven-year $2 billion Bridging the Future capital plan approved by the Illinois Tollway Board in December 2024. More information can be found at illinoistollway.com.
Drivers are reminded that construction zone speed limits apply at all times within these zones. The "Move Over Law" requires motorists to change lanes or slow down when passing vehicles with hazard lights activated on road shoulders. Penalties for violations include fines up to $25,000 or jail time if a roadway worker is struck.