Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has announced the successful completion of the I-57 improvement project in the south suburbs of Chicago. The US$82.1 million project began in early 2022. The aim was to improve travel conditions and reduce congestion along the key stretches of the highway. The project covered 20 miles of the I-57 from West County Line Road to Steger Road and from Halsted Street to I-294.
The I-57 project involved resurfacing and patching of sections on the road. It also involved the replacement of large overhead expressway signs and the upgrading of ramps, weigh stations and rest areas. It also involved the critical repair of infrastructure such as bridges over I-80 and over the Canadian National Railroad. Both these repairs involved new deck overlays and structural steel repairs.
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The I-57 is the longest interstate in the state of Illinois, stretching roughly 359 miles. It is an important highway as serves trucks and other travelers, connecting them to various cities and institutions within the state.
Notably, enhancements were made to rest areas. This involved the incorporation of ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps and upgrading weigh-in-motion scale and Bluetooth sensors. These technological improvements aim to facilitate smoother trucking and freight activity along the interstate.
With up to 140,000 vehicles traversing I-57 daily, the completion of this project is a welcome relief for commuters who endured disruptions during the construction period. Although traffic may experience temporary congestion as it returns to normal levels, motorists can rejoice in the fact that major potholes have been effectively patched up.
Currently, the I-74 project is also underway. It involves the construction of the Mattis Avenue bridge and route 150 bridge. In total, the projects will both cost $280 million. IDOT’s website lists a hopeful completion date for 2025.
