I-55 Interchange Project
Tri-State Tollway (I-294)
I-55 Interchange Project
Project Overview
To accommodate the rebuilding and widening of the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294), the Illinois Tollway, in conjunction with the Illinois Department of Transportation, will reconstruct and improve several ramps and bridges at the I-55 Interchange, along with mainline roadway reconstruction and widening in the area. The work will not change the existing configuration of the interchange.
In 2023, the Tollway is scheduled to complete reconstruction of the ramp connecting I-55 to northbound I-294, along with the I-294 bridges over I-55, Wolf Road, Joliet Road and Flagg Creek. Work is also scheduled to continue to reconstruct and widen northbound I-294 between 75th Street and I-55.
Construction in this area is scheduled to be complete in 2025.
NB I-294 TO SB I-55 AND WOLF ROAD DETOUR
Construction Update (9/22/23)
Between Plainfield Road and 75th Street, traffic in both directions is shifted. Traffic is scheduled to remain in this configuration through 2023.
Please check the Daily Construction Alert for up-to-date closure information.
Customer Impacts
Electronic message signs and construction signage will be put in place in advance to alert drivers to scheduled lane closures, traffic patterns and work zone speed limits.
The Tollway will use traffic shifts and lane reductions when possible to maintain access, however temporary closures and detours will be scheduled as needed to safely accommodate construction work.
In 2022, a long-term detour of the ramps connecting the northbound I-294 to southbound I-55 and to Wolf Road will be needed.
Purpose
Improvements to the I-55 Interchange are part of the $4 billion Central Tri-State Project, which is reconstructing and widening the roadway between Balmoral Avenue and 95th Street to provide congestion relief, update old infrastructure to meet current and future transportation demand and address regional needs.
Local Coordination
Construction in this area is being coordinated with the Illinois Department of Transportation, Cook County, Village of Burr Ridge, Village of Hinsdale, Village of Indian Head Park, Village of Western Springs, City of Countryside, Flagg Creek Water Reclamation District, ComEd and Nicor, as well as local fire and police departments.
Work Zone Safety
The Illinois Tollway is committed to ensuring that the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294) and local roads safe for both drivers and workers during construction, which is part of the agency’s overall commitment to roadway safety.
Work 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. On I-294, a 45 mph work zone speed limit is in effect throughout the construction season.