Foster Avenue Bridge project to bring detours, ramp closures through 2026

A two-year construction project will start next week in Jefferson Park. 

The Foster Avenue Bridge, which carries traffic over the Kennedy Expressway, is being replaced. Work on the 66-year-old bridge is slated to begin Tuesday and continue through Summer 2026. 

According to a news release from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the $25.2 million project consists of replacing the existing bridge, installing new LED lighting, modernizing traffic signals, constructing new ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps and implementing drainage improvements.

During the construction, detours will direct drivers and pedestrians to Nagel, Bryn Mawr, Milwaukee and Central avenues.

IDOT said Foster Avenue ramps to and from the Kennedy will remain open during the first construction phase. But, in early spring, the westbound Foster Avenue ramp to outbound Kennedy will be closed for approximately three to four months. 

Drivers should expect overnight roadwork on the Kennedy Expressway at Foster Avenue until the project is complete. 

TrafficJefferson ParkNewsIllinois Department of Transportation