Kennedy Expressway Express Lanes Reopening This Week, IDOT Announces
After a delay, the reversible express lanes on the Kennedy Expressway will reopen this week amid a massive restoration project. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has confirmed that the reopening of the reversible lanes is expected just in time for the Monday morning rush hour, with a scheduled lane reopening at 5 a.m.
Massive Renovation Project
The lanes were initially planned to reopen in December, but delays arose as IDOT workers embarked on a significant renovation of the Reversible Lane Access Control system, as stated by officials. This system plays a crucial role in controlling access to the reversible lanes, which can be opened in either direction based on the flow of rush hour traffic on the expressway. The intricate system comprises more than 120 gates, camera equipment, fiber optic cables, and a variety of signage, as detailed on IDOT’s website.
Roadwork Details
During the closure of the reversible lanes, sections of pavement were repaved, and bridges underwent rehabilitation, as per officials. The inbound lanes of the Kennedy Expressway were rehabilitated in 2023 as part of the ongoing project. The third and final stage of the three-year project is anticipated to commence later this year, focusing on the outbound lanes of the Kennedy Expressway.
Outbound Lanes Rehabilitation
As per a fact sheet, improvements to the outbound lanes will necessitate numerous lane closures throughout the project’s duration, with workers undertaking lane rehabilitation and bridge refurbishments along the route. The lane closures will affect the outbound Kennedy Expressway between Ohio Street and Lawrence Avenue, with a total of 19 bridges requiring rehabilitation work during this period. Additionally, overhead signs will be replaced, and other signage will be added to enhance safety measures. LED lighting upgrades, structural painting, and pavement patching are also on the agenda, officials confirmed.
Future Project Timeline
Although there is no set start date for the project, the work is slated to conclude by the fall of 2025. For more detailed information regarding the project, interested individuals can refer to IDOT’s website.
