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Illinois Department of Transportation

Grundy County - Pioneer Road Bridge over I-80

The Illinois Department of Transportation is in the preliminary phase of a study to improve Interstate 80 from just east of the Seneca interchange to just mile west of Illinois 47 (approximately 6.5 miles) in Grundy County. The scope of the project is pavement reconstruction involving several overhead bridges.

Part of the project is considering permanent removal of an overhead bridge (SN 032-0064) carrying Pioneer Road (Township Road) over I-80. This structure is located about 4 miles west of Illinois 47 and Morris. While replacing the bridge was carefully evaluated, a comprehensive cost-benefit and traffic analysis determined that removal of the bridge is the recommended option due to immediate, significant cost savings and elimination of future long-term maintenance cost.

The I-80 improvement project is tentatively scheduled in the department’s FY 2026-2031 Highway Improvement Program, subject to project readiness and funding availability. Please explore the web page for further information regarding the improvements. There are additional location maps, crash and detour exhibits, bridge typical sections, and preliminary design drawings that are available below. 

Note: IDOT projects typically have three distinct phases. Phase I (or the project study) consists of developing the project scope, environmental studies, and preliminary design of a project. Phase II (design) consists of refining the design to develop contract plans and land acquisition. Phase III (construction) consists of the actual construction of the project.

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Why not just replace the bridge?

  • Funds are shifted from a low-usage bridge to high-traffic I-80 upgrades that serve more people.
  • Eliminates the ongoing financial burden of structural inspections and upkeep.
  • Eliminates future maintenance needs to access the bridge from I-80, improving the safety for both IDOT maintenance workers and users.
  • Removing the bridge piers, which are physical obstructions, improves the clear zone and roadside safety on I-80.

Will emergency services still have access across I-80?

Emergency responders will be able to utilize nearby crossings at Nettle School Road and Saratoga Road.

What happens to the land where the road used to be?

  • Proposed cul-de-sacs on Pioneer Road will match the design standards used at Nettle Creek Road to maintain a uniform regional infrastructure.
  • The roadway elevation will be lowered to integrate proper drainage ditches without encroaching on private property or requiring additional right –of way. 

Questions about the I-80 project and closure of Pioneer Road overhead bridge can be directed to:

 

Kenneth Banga, P.E. 
Location and Environmental Studies Engineer
Phone: (815) 434-8469