Work on the section from Franklin Avenue to Balmoral Avenue includes full-depth concrete patching. This work will be done during overnight hours using traffic shifts to create work zones. Lanes will be reopened in time for the morning rush.

Bridge Work

Some bridge work will take place during daytime hours in protected work zones, but no lanes will be closed except during overnight hours. Bridge work includes joint replacement, pier repairs, partial-depth patching and minimal structural repairs.

While the majority of the 54 bridge structures that will be repaired are Tollway bridges over other roads and waterways, there are several local roads that will see some impacts from this project. Lane and/or shoulder closures are expected on 88th Avenue and St. Charles Road over I-294 and on LaGrange Road and Wolf Road under I-294.

The Illinois Tollway is coordinating work with the Illinois Department of Transportation, Cook County Highway Department, DuPage County Division of Transportation, Canadian National Railroad, Burlington Northern Railroad, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, Forest Preserve District of Cook County, the United States Coast Guard, as well as numerous utilities and municipalities along the corridor.

Work Zone Safety

A 45 mph speed limit is in effect 24/7 in all construction zones, whether or not workers are present. Drivers should continue to watch for changing traffic patterns, milled surfaces, uneven pavement levels and traffic shifts at bridges and use caution at all times.

Illinois State Police have zero tolerance for drivers speeding in work zones.The minimum penalty for speeding in a work zone is $375. Posted signs advise drivers of a $10,000 fine and 14-year jail sentence for hitting a roadway worker.

Building Green

The Illinois Tollway Authority says it is committed to “Building Green” and minimizing the environmental impact of construction by reducing, recycling and reusing materials. The new asphalt overlay on the Tri-State Tollway will incorporate recycled materials including warm mix asphalt, reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), ground tire rubber and recycled asphalt shingles. In addition to reducing the cost of this work, reuse of these materials reduces the need for virgin asphalt materials and the volume of material that would otherwise be sent to landfills.