The Kennedy Expressway is set to return to normal for at least a few months as Phase 1 of the ambitious $150 million project concludes.
Illinois Department of Transportation officials said a final series of lane closures took place Saturday night into Sunday morning before reopening the upbound section of the highway, with all lanes reopening just after 7 a.m.
The first phase of the three-phase project began in March, creating traffic jams on both sides of the freeway and prompting drivers to find other ways to get around Chicago.
Once that phase of the project is finished, Here’s what we know about what’s to come.
Phase 2
Illinois Department of Transportation officials said the next phase of the project will focus on express lanes that can reverse from the inbound lane.
These lanes are scheduled to be completely closed starting in spring 2024. Officials said the main focus during the closure will be on upgrading the REVLAC (Reversible Lane and Control) system in the express lanes.
This part of the project will also install LED lights in the “Hubbard’s Cave” tunnel, which will require lane closures on the mainline portion of the highway.
Finally, painting will take place along the highway and patching of the highway pavement will also take place.
This phase is expected to be completed in fall 2024.
Phase 3
The final phase of the project is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2025, when the downhill side of the road will receive its final touches.
As was done on the inbound side during the first phase, two outbound lanes of the main line will be closed at once during construction, while the inbound reversible express lanes will remain open to ease traffic flow.
New LED lighting, painting and signage will be installed on the downhill side of the Hubbard Cave.
IDOT officials say these lane closures are expected to continue until late fall of 2025.