Introduction to Kennedy Expressway Construction

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced the start date for phase three of the Kennedy Rehabilitation Project during a press conference Tuesday.

Buckle up for the final round of construction on the Kennedy Expressway. 

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced the start date for phase three of the Kennedy Rehabilitation Project during a press conference Tuesday. 

Kennedy Expressway Construction

What We Know

Work will start on the outbound side of I-90/94 from Ohio Street to the Edens Expressway junction on March 18. 
During this phase, the reversible lanes will open in the outbound direction, while two outbound lanes will be closed at a time until late fall.
Some of the work includes repairs to bridge decks along I-90/94, pavement patching, overhead sign-structure replacements and lighting updates. 

What’s Next

The timeline and work will be similar to the first phase on the inbound side. There will be rolling closures on exit and entrance ramps, and new traffic patterns.
IDOT said the reversible mid-gate entrance and exit will be closed during the first stage of construction. This closure means drivers who enter the express lanes cannot exit until they reach the Edens Expressway at Foster Avenue.
IDOT said drivers going to O’Hare from downtown Chicago must stay in the local Kennedy lanes and not the express lanes.
Signs will be posted ahead of the express lane entrance to warn drivers.
IDOT expects to wrap up the entire project by this Thanksgiving.

Preparatory Work

Starting this week, multiple overnight lane closures will occur on the outbound Kennedy and the reversible lanes between Ohio Street and Montrose Avenue from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Conclusion

The final phase of the Kennedy Expressway construction is set to begin, bringing with it a series of changes and closures that drivers should be aware of to navigate the area efficiently. With preparations underway and a projected completion date by Thanksgiving, the end of this construction project is in sight, promising improved road conditions for commuters.

FAQs

• Q: When does the final phase of Kennedy Expressway construction start?
  A: The final phase starts on March 18.
• Q: What work will be done during this phase?
  A: Repairs to bridge decks, pavement patching, overhead sign-structure replacements, and lighting updates.
• Q: Will there be lane closures?
  A: Yes, two outbound lanes will be closed at a time until late fall, and there will be rolling closures on exit and entrance ramps.
• Q: How long is the project expected to last?
  A: The entire project is expected to wrap up by Thanksgiving.
• Q: What should drivers going to O’Hare from downtown Chicago do?
  A: They must stay in the local Kennedy lanes and not use the express lanes.
• Q: Where can drivers find more information about the construction and traffic updates?
  A: The Illinois Department of Transportation will provide updates, and signs will be posted to guide drivers through the construction area.