I-80 Des Plaines River Bridge Community Plan

Project Overview

The I-80 Des Plaines River Bridge Community Plan is an important partnership between the City of Joliet and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). The Plan will address community improvements in the neighborhoods surrounding the I-80 Des Plaines River Bridge.

IDOT's larger I-80 reconstruction project includes replacing and relocating the Des Plaines River Bridge. IDOT has committed $3.5 million for community improvements to address impacts from the bridge relocation. This Community Plan will determine how those funds should be used to best benefit the surrounding neighborhoods. 

Unlike previous I-80 engagement efforts that focused on environmental review and property acquisition, this planning process concentrates specifically on identifying and implementing community improvements that enhance connectivity, community cohesion, and neighborhood identity.

Project study area:

I80 Study area.png

 

Our Approach

The planning process will be collaborative and community-driven. Working with residents, community leaders, and stakeholders, we will:

  • Identify community vision, needs and priorities
  • Develop options for community improvements
  • Build agreement around preferred options
  • Create cost estimates and implementation plans
  • Produce a final Community Plan that reflects the community's vision

Plan Development Timeline

The Community Plan development will take place over approximately 18 months, with multiple opportunities for community involvement throughout the process.

Community Improvements

The plan will explore possible concepts that build upon ideas expressed by community partners during the 2020-2022 engagement process, including:

  • Identify community vision, needs and priorities
  • New walking and biking trail connecting neighborhoods along the Des Plaines River between Varnado Park and areas where the existing I-80 bridge will be demolished
  • Enhanced lighting for safety and aestheticsHistoric plaque for Reverend Varnado Park
  • Traffic calming measures along Water Street

Contact Us

For more information about the I-80 Des Plaines River Bridge Community Plan or to share your ideas, please contact:

  • Email: i80communityplan@joliet.gov
  • Phone: 815-242-2212 
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