CHICAGO, IL — The final stage of the Kennedy Expressway rehabilitation project is set to commence this week, bringing significant lane closures, detours, and anticipated traffic congestion as crews undertake major infrastructure improvements. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has confirmed that the third and last phase of the three-year project will officially begin on Tuesday, March 19.
Starting Monday at 9 p.m., construction crews will begin establishing safety zones along the expressway, marking the onset of disruptions. Traffic along the Kennedy has remained relatively smooth leading up to the project, but gridlock is expected to set in as work progresses. The final phase involves critical improvements, including the repair of 19 bridges, pavement repatching, and the replacement of overhead signs and LED lighting along the outbound lanes of the expressway.
Drivers should prepare for significant lane restrictions and changes to existing traffic patterns. Two left local lanes will be closed from Division Street to Kostner Avenue beginning Tuesday morning through late June. The reversible express lanes will be open outbound for the duration of the project; however, at times, exits towards O’Hare International Airport will be inaccessible. During the construction period, the reversible express lanes will exit onto the outbound Edens Expressway at Foster Avenue, meaning drivers headed to O’Hare must remain in the local lanes. Overnight ramp and lane closures are expected between Ohio Street and Montrose Avenue, adding to the anticipated congestion.
For many, the upcoming changes mean longer commutes and increased frustration. Livery cab driver Muhammed Masood voiced concerns about the financial toll the project will take on those who rely on the Kennedy for work. “Of course I’m going to lose more,” Masood said. “Time, yeah, that’s all—lose time and lose money.” Local driver Ivan Vega acknowledged the necessity of the project despite the inconvenience, stating, “I can’t be mad at that. I hit a lot of potholes and got my tires messed up. If this fixes that, it’s worth it.”
With traffic disruptions unavoidable, IDOT is strongly encouraging drivers to seek alternate routes or opt for public transit to avoid extended delays. The CTA Blue Line, which runs through the Kennedy Expressway corridor, is being promoted as a viable option for those looking to bypass the congestion. “I’ve just got to be patient and get people from point A to point B, and then get myself home, and then to work,” said rideshare driver Mike Stewart. “That’s about it.”
To keep commuters informed, IDOT will frequently update its website with the latest details on lane and ramp closures, ensuring that drivers have access to real-time information. While frustration is expected in the coming months, IDOT officials emphasize that these improvements will ultimately lead to a safer and more efficient expressway for all users. Until then, patience will be key as Chicago drivers navigate the final stretch of this extensive rehabilitation project. For updates, visit IDOT’s official website or follow local traffic advisories.
