I-294/I-57 Interchange Project
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Project Overview
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The Illinois Tollway and Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) are partnering to construct a new interchange to connect the Tri-State Tollway (I-294) to I-57.
In 2013, the Tollway will begin construction of the primary interchange connections between I-294 and I-57 and at 147th Street. Work in 2013 also includes realigning a portion of Dixie Creek. The first phase of the project will be completed by the end of 2014. This work is part of the Tollway's new $12 billion capital program, Move Illinois: The Illinois Tollway Building the Future.
Construction Update (04-08-2013)
Traffic on I-294 has been reduced to three lanes and the inside shoulders have been closed in both directions for about a mile north and south of I-57 as work begins to build the new ramp from northbound I-57 to northbound I-294.
Project Summary
The Tollway will begin work to build new ramps to connect northbound I-57 to northbound I-294 and southbound I-294 to southbound I-57, as well as an exit ramp from southbound I-294 to 147th Street and an entrance ramp from 147th Street to northbound I-294. Work will include earth excavation, drainage culvert removal and replacement, erosion and sediment control, shoulder removal and replacement, as well as pavement and bridge construction.
This year's work also includes the realignment of a portion of Dixie Creek. Realignment of the creek is necessary as it currently runs through the pathway of the future interchange ramp that will take drivers from northbound I-57 to northbound I-294. Dixie Creek work will not impact traffic.
In addition to the Tollway's work, IDOT will rebuild and widen 147th Street from Kedzie Avenue to Sacramento Avenue and from Mozart Avenue to Dixie Highway/Western Avenue.
Maintenance of Traffic
Whenever possible, the Tollway uses traffic shifts and shoulders to keep as many lanes open during peak hours as were available before construction.
Traffic will be reduced to three lanes in each direction through the construction zone between 159th Street and Kedzie Avenue, with additional off-peak and overnight lane closures as necessary.
Purpose
The I-294/I-57 Interchange Project will relieve congestion on local routes, enhance economic development and improve overall transportation throughout the region.
The project is estimated at $719 million. The Tollway is coordinating work with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).
Land Acquisition
As part of its capital planning process, the Illinois Tollway often seeks to acquire real estate needed for various public purposes, including the construction or expansion of the Tollway system. Land to be purchased by the Tollway is often referred to as right-of-way. The Tollway has adopted policies that provide fair and equitable procedures for the acquisition process.
| I-294/57 Land Acquisition Documents |
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| Proposed Tri-State Tollway (I-294)/I-57 Land Acquisition Map (pdf) |
| Tri-State Tollway (I-294)/I-57 Relocation Program Summary (pdf) |
Learn more about land acquisition.
Work Zone Safety
Construction zone speed limits are in effect in all construction zones 24/7 and drivers should continue to watch for changing traffic patterns and use caution, especially when workers are present. A 45 mph speed limit will be in place. Visit the Tollway's Work Zone Safety page.
