Chicago Construction News staff
Interstate 255 from Illinois 157 to Illinois 15 was to have re-opened to traffic last weekend (June 14), more than six weeks ahead of schedule, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has announced.
“This is a big win for the Metro East,” said state Sen. Christopher Belt, D-Swansea. “Thanks to smart planning and efficient execution by our friends in labor and IDOT, I-255 is reopening well ahead of schedule. That means quicker commutes, safer roads, and for many of us, a long-awaited break from the ‘scenic route’ on I-64.”
The accelerated $65.4 million project is the second of five phases aimed at repairing and improving I-255. The work was made possible through Gov. JB Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois capital program.
By completely closing the work zone instead of accommodating traffic and spreading the project over multiple construction seasons, the improvements were completed faster, cheaper and safer, saving an estimated $10 million.
“We are finding new ways to speed up projects to minimize the inconvenience of construction so you can experience the benefits sooner,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “We appreciate your patience. The I-255 project has been a success story that we will look to duplicate throughout the state.”
The project, which began with a full closure on Feb. 1, rehabilitated and resurfaced about 3.5 miles of I-255 in both directions. Work included bridge repairs, safety upgrades, new lighting and guardrails, improved signage and drainage, and replacement of deteriorated pavement dating back to the highway’s original construction in 1984.
Before the project, this section of I-255 required frequent unscheduled lane closures for emergency repairs.
“I appreciate the diligent work from our skilled union laborers to get this project done early,” said Assistant House Majority Leader Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea. “This is a needed upgrade that makes the route safer for travelers and is another great example of our ongoing efforts to invest in our region’s infrastructure.”
The first phase of the I-255 project, a $67 million effort covering 7.5 miles between Collinsville Road and Illinois 15, was completed in 2020, also ahead of schedule and under budget.
The remaining three phases will continue improvements between the Mississippi River and Illinois 157, with timelines yet to be determined.
St. Clair County Chair Mark Kern called the early completion “an exciting accomplishment that will benefit St. Clair County’s residents in a multitude of ways.”
As part of the Rebuild Illinois program, IDOT plans to improve more than 3,200 miles of highway and nearly 9 million square feet of bridge deck over the next six years. The $33.2 billion investment includes projects statewide on highways, bridges and safety upgrades.
