Next Week: Public Meeting for I-55 at Illinois 59 Access Study

On Thursday, March 12, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is hosting a public meeting to discuss details related to the I-155 at Illinois 59 Access Study. The open-house format meeting will take place from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Joliet Junior College, Building U Auditorium, 1215 Houbolt Road in Joliet.

The I-55 at Illinois 59 Access Study consists of proposed projects to improve the connections between the Interstate 55 and Illinois 59 corridors in Will County. It is being made possible by Governor J.B. Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois capital plan. The program will help reduce congestion in high-growth areas and also aid in improving connections and safety.

During the meeting, IDOT will provide status updates for each project while also showcasing exhibits and showing an audio-visual presentation. Staff will be on hand to answers all questions. IDOT is also expected to present the preferred alternative for other projects within the Access Study area bounded by U.S. 52, Interstate 80, River Road and Houbolt Road. According to IDOT, the projects include the following:

· U.S. 52 widening from River Road to I-55 and other safety improvements from I-55 to Houbolt Road.

· New diverging diamond interchange at I-55 and Illinois 59.

· Extension of Olympic Boulevard from Rock Run Business Park to I-55’s East Frontage Road.

· Seil Road mini-roundabouts at Raven Road and States Lane.

IDOT’s multi-year plan includes U.S. 52 widening and I-55 at Illinois 59 Interchange, which will be an estimated $176 million in improvements. The overall plan will total about $23.5 billion for improvements on the state’s roads and bridges over the next six years. More information can be found at www.i55atil59accessproject.org.

Image via John Ferak/Patch Editor