IDOT: Plan for ‘heavy’ traffic backups along I-80 in Joliet this weekend

Bridge repairs and ongoing center lane construction will mean lane closures and traffic detours along Interstate 80 in Joliet this weekend, the Illinois Department of Transportation said.Starting at 10 p.m. Friday, lane closures are scheduled on westbound I-80, between Richards Street and Wheeler Avenue. At least one westbound I-80 lane will remain open at all times, and eastbound I-80 will not be impacted. All lanes are expected to reopen by 5 a.m. Monday, IDOT said.“Heavy congestion is anticipated. Westbound motorists should consider alternate routes to avoid the area,” IDOT said in a news release. The work consists of bridge deck repairs and pavement patching.The ramps from westbound I-80 to northbound and southbound Chicago Street (U.S. Route 52/Illinois Route 53) are currently closed as part of the interchange reconstruction.The public should follow the posted detour to access the interstate, IDOT said.In addition, new split-lane configurations are scheduled to begin on Sunday fol