The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has entered the third and final phase of the Kennedy Expressway rehabilitation project, advancing a critical upgrade of one of Chicago’s busiest transportation corridors. Originally projected at $150 million, the project’s cost has risen to $169 million due to expanded pavement patching and bridge deck repair needs. Stretching across 7.5 miles from the I-94 split to downtown Chicago, the final phase is slated for completion by late 2025.
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has entered the third and final phase of the Kennedy Expressway rehabilitation project, advancing a critical upgrade of one of Chicago’s busiest transportation corridors. Originally projected at $150 million, the project’s cost has risen to $169 million due to expanded pavement patching and bridge deck repair needs. Stretching across 7.5 miles from the I-94 split to downtown Chicago, the final phase is slated for completion by late 2025.
Scope of Work
Focused on improving roadway safety, longevity, and traffic flow, this phase targets the outbound lanes from the Edens Expressway junction to Ohio Street. Key elements of the work include:
-
Repairing 19 bridge structures to restore structural integrity and safety.
-
Patching and resurfacing pavement to ensure smoother driving conditions.
-
Replacing overhead signs to enhance wayfinding and improve traffic management.
-
Upgrading LED lighting throughout the corridor for better visibility and energy efficiency.
-
Reinforcing structural steel components to extend bridge lifespan.
-
Applying new pavement markings for clearer lane guidance.
Additionally, upgrades at the Hubbard underpass between Ohio and Lake Streets will include new lighting and aesthetic improvements.
Traffic Impacts
Lane Closures and Travel Adjustments
-
Two outbound lanes of I-90/94 are closed from Ohio Street to the Edens Expressway.
-
From Division Street to Kostner Avenue, the two left outbound lanes are closed, while the right lanes remain open to local traffic.
-
Reversible express lanes are open outbound-only and will remain so throughout this phase.
-
Mid-gate access points for the reversible lanes are closed, requiring drivers to remain in these lanes until Foster Avenue.
-
Express lane access to O’Hare Airport is unavailable, with local lanes serving as the only route.
Budget and Contractors
ABC7 News reports that to date, $107.2 million of the $169 million total has been spent. Cost increases have been attributed to additional pavement patching and inner concrete wiring complications identified during earlier phases.
The project is being executed by a team of experienced contractors:
-
Dunnet Bay Construction Co.
-
Martam Construction
-
John Burns Construction
These firms are handling all aspects of the project—from bridge repair to lighting installation—under IDOT’s oversight.
Workforce and Construction Details
The complexity of this phase requires skilled tradespeople across multiple disciplines. Major responsibilities include:
-
Bridge and steel rehabilitation to fortify aging structures.
-
Road resurfacing and patching to improve ride quality and safety.
-
Installation of new signage and pavement striping to support efficient traffic movement.
-
Upgrading LED lighting systems to meet modern energy standards and visibility needs.
Crews are working under live traffic conditions, necessitating rigorous safety protocols, clear signage, and strategic scheduling to minimize disruption.
Timeline and Future Benefits
Initiated in 2023, the Kennedy Expressway rehabilitation project has already completed work on the inbound lanes and reversible express lanes. The final outbound-focused phase will continue through Thanksgiving 2025, with full completion expected by year’s end.
IDOT underscores the long-term value of the project: enhanced safety, reduced maintenance frequency, and improved traffic efficiency across one of the region’s most vital roadways.
Conclusion
The final phase of the Kennedy Expressway rehabilitation marks a crucial investment in the future of Chicago’s transportation infrastructure. With repairs to 19 bridges, extensive pavement restoration, and major upgrades to signage and lighting, this project is transforming the expressway into a safer, more resilient corridor. As construction crews carry out the final stretch of work, the improvements promise to deliver lasting benefits to commuters, commercial drivers, and the broader region.
