Drivers who frequent La Grange Road and 55th Street in Countryside will need extra patience starting today and lasting until late 2027.
The Illinois Department of Transportation the start of an extensive reconstruction project at the intersection today, Aug. 5, weather permitting. The work will require lane closures and probably result in traffic delays through late 2027.
Work is already underway on widening 55th Street between La Grange Road and East Avenue, with additional roadwork on 55th Street east of Brainard Avenue. It may be a good idea to avoid the intersection entirely if possible.
Throughout construction, at least one lane in each direction will remain open, with various lane shifts on La Grange Road and 55th Street. Due to the narrow width of the intersection during construction, vehicles longer than 40 feet will be prohibited from turning at the intersection. Detours will be posted.
The $16.9 million project will reconstruct and widen the intersection, install modernized traffic signals and LED lights, construct new sidewalks with ADA-compliant ramps, and improve drainage.
Advance work started earlier this year to build temporary pavement and prepare the site to keep roads open throughout construction.
Drivers should pay close attention to flaggers and signs, obey posted speed limits, and watch for workers and equipment.