Chicago drivers should prepare for significant changes on the outbound Kennedy Expressway this week as the Illinois Department of Transportation begins a new lane configuration that will last approximately two weeks. As part of the ongoing Kennedy Expressway rehabilitation project, the number of lanes is temporarily reduced from six to four in a newly reconfigured construction zone. The rehabilitation work stretches from the Edens Expressway junction to Ohio Street and is one of the most extensive upgrades to the Kennedy in recent years.
The new lane layout is designed to allow crews to complete center lane repairs between Kostner Avenue and the Edens junction. Beginning Tuesday morning, outbound traffic is redirected into a new pattern where four lanes are split by a barrier wall. Under this configuration, two left lanes continue onto the Kennedy (I-90), while two right lanes diverge toward the Edens (I-94). This split arrangement is intended to facilitate ongoing construction activities while maintaining traffic flow, though motorists should still anticipate delays.
In preparation for the traffic shift, several lane and ramp closures were carried out over the previous week through Monday night. Right lane closures extended from just before the Edens junction to Wilson Avenue to allow for necessary pavement repairs. Additionally, the outbound Edens ramp to Wilson Avenue was shut down, with a detour clearly marked for drivers. From Monday night starting at 10 p.m., outbound Kennedy traffic was gradually reduced to one lane from Kostner to the Edens junction, accompanied by intermittent ramp closures. Express lanes were also closed at midnight. All lanes and ramps affected by these closures reopened by 5 a.m. Tuesday, minimizing disruption during the morning commute.
One positive development for commuters is the reopening of the Keeler Avenue ramp to the outbound Kennedy, which had been closed since early summer. This ramp reopened at 5 a.m. Tuesday, an entire month ahead of schedule, offering some relief for those using that access point. However, despite this improvement, the reduced lane configuration is expected to create bottlenecks during peak travel times.
The Illinois Department of Transportation advises motorists to plan ahead for delays during the two-week period of the lane reduction. Drivers are encouraged to travel during off-peak hours whenever possible, consider alternative routes to avoid the Kennedy, or make use of public transportation to ease congestion. These recommendations are intended to minimize frustration and keep traffic moving as smoothly as possible during the construction phase.
Looking ahead, the entire outbound Kennedy rehabilitation is expected to be completed by Thanksgiving. Until then, periodic changes to traffic patterns and lane availability will continue to impact drivers. The IDOT stresses that weather conditions and other unforeseen factors could alter the construction schedule, so travelers are urged to stay updated on any changes. Regular updates will be provided to keep motorists informed as the work progresses.
This project is a critical part of improving one of Chicago’s busiest highways. The Kennedy Expressway is a vital link for commuters and freight traffic, and the rehabilitation aims to extend its service life while enhancing safety and driving conditions. While the current lane reductions are inconvenient, they are necessary to complete essential repairs and upgrades that will benefit drivers in the long term.
For now, Chicagoans and visitors alike should prepare for slower travel times on the outbound Kennedy Expressway and exercise patience as crews work to complete the project efficiently. By adhering to posted signs, following detours, and planning trips carefully, drivers can navigate this challenging period more effectively. Once finished, the improvements to the Kennedy are expected to ease congestion and provide a smoother experience for everyone traveling along this key route.
