Brandon Road bridge to reopen Nov. 9

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that Brandon Road bridge over the Des Plaines River, in Rockdale, is scheduled to reopen, weather permitting, Monday, Nov. 9.

The $3.4 million project consists of repairing the deck, joints and brakes, all four motors and aerial cables were replaced along with various mechanical components, locks and structural steel. Additionally, as part of upgrading the Joliet movable bridges to allow them to be controlled from a central location, new control systems were installed, along with various tender house upgrades.

The 94-year-old bridge initially closed in late 2023 and while construction was underway the need for unforeseen additional repairs was discovered. ​

Upon reopening, work will continue on miscellaneous and punch list items along with equipment testing, which will involve frequent lifting and lowering of the bridge over the next few months. ​

The public can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Alternate routes are encouraged. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to flaggers and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits and be on the alert for workers and equipment.

Over the next six years, IDOT is planning to improve 7,107 lane miles of highway and 8.4 million square feet of bridge deck as part of Rebuild Illinois, which is investing $33.2 billion into all modes of transportation. Accomplishments through Year Seven of Rebuild Illinois include $25.6 billion of improvements statewide to 24,498 lane miles of highway, 959 bridges and 1,475 additional safety improvements.

For more information on IDOT projects, click here. Find traffic and road conditions at www.gettingaroundillinois.com. You also can follow IDOT on Facebook and X.

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