New I-80 Bridge Over Des Plaines River: Several Joliet Lives Must Be Uprooted First

JOLIET, IL ? The City of Joliet issued a press release this week advising that it has a partnership with the Illinois Department of Transportation to hold the first community meeting for the I-80 Des Plaines River Bridge Community Plan starting next week.

According to Joliet, there is a comprehensive planning study to determine how $3.5 million in state funding will be used for community improvements in neighborhoods affected by the I-80 bridge replacement project.

As part of IDOT's commitment during the I-80 reconstruction environmental review process, the state has allocated $3.5 million specifically for improvements within the defined impacted area, Joliet's press release outlined. These improvements are limited to the area generally bounded by S. Chicago Street/IL 53 to the east, S. Center Street to the west, McDonough Street to the north, and Edwards Street to the south.

?This planning process represents a significant opportunity for residents to shape the future of their neighborhood,? said Jayne Bernhard, Planning Director for the City of Joliet. ?We're committed to ensuring that community voices drive the decision-making process for how these funds are invested.?

On Thursday, Joliet Patch visited the Water Street neighborhood. Several homes have already been demolished to make way for the new I-80 bridge over the Des Plaines River and several more homes are next in line to be bulldozed under the IDOT initiative.

Meanwhile, the city of Joliet advised that the planning study will examine potential improvements including a multi-use trail along the Des Plaines River, traffic-calming measures on Water Street, an honorary plaque for Reverend Varnado, and other projects to strengthen neighborhood identity and cohesion.

"This is about more than infrastructure ? it's about people," said Mayor Terry D'Arcy. "We want to make sure that this investment reflects the needs and hopes of those who live here. I encourage every resident to take part in this important process and help us build a stronger, more connected Joliet."

The first community meeting will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 22, at All Nations Church of God, at 507 Water St. Food will be provided, and Spanish interpretation will be available.

Joliet advised that the Community Plan is expected to be completed in 2026, with implementation of the recommended improvements to follow. The planning process will include multiple opportunities for public input, including additional community meetings, one-on-one engagement, and a dedicated community steering committee.

For more information about the I-80 Des Plaines River Bridge Community Plan, visit the website, or contact the project team at i80communityplan@joliet.gov or 815-242-2212.