The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that a project to add a lane to each direction of Interstate 80 between U.S. 45 and U.S. 30 in Will County is scheduled to begin, weather permitting, the evening of April 19.

The project was originally scheduled to begin this evening.

The project involves converting I-80’s existing inside shoulder into a third lane for eight miles in both directions and widening the roadway over the Norfolk Southern Railroad tracks near New Lenox. A new shoulder and median barrier will be built, along with sound walls, drainage improvements, traffic surveillance systems and new pavement markings.
 
Two lanes of traffic will be maintained through the work zone, though the speed limit will be reduced to 55 mph. Some overnight and weekend lane closures should be anticipated.
 
Motorists should expect delays and allow extra time for trips through this area. Please obey the speed limit, observe closure signs and remain alert for workers. Cell phone use in work zones is illegal and subject to fines.
 
The $22.6 million project’s scheduled completion date is Oct. 31. K-Five Construction Corp., of Lemont, is the prime contractor.
 
The widening project will be done simultaneously with a resurfacing of I-80 from U.S. 30 to the Grundy County line. The anticipated starting date for that project is late April. 
 
For more information on both I-80 projects, including a map of the work zone, visit http://www.dot.state.il.us/I80/index.html.