Monday marks the beginning of the end for the lengthy Western/Belmont/Clybourn construction project, now approaching the final stage a roughly year-long plan.
Starting Monday (and barring any issues arising from the state’s budget impasse), construction crews are expected to repave Western Avenue to make way for a newly revitalized stretch of road that Chicagoans travel frequently. The construction project stems from the removal and demolition of the Western/Belmont overpass in 2015.
For how long: Like previous stages (there are five total) of the plan, repaving will take place at night and last for two weeks.
Why it matters: The city is expected to shut down at least one lane in each direction between Logan Blvd. and Waveland Ave., based on information provided by the Chicago Department of Transportation. That means more traffic congestion, slower speeds, and longer commutes.
On the bright side: The finished project will create a much more conducive environment for a smoother traffic flow for motorists and commercial buses, making it safer on multiple levels. That includes nearby pedestrians. The revitalization project has been a long road (no pun intended) to pay dirt, but it’s certain to improve safety and encourage better driving. We can safely say it was long overdue for an upgrade.
Advice: The CDOT encourages motorists to find alternate traffic routs to avoid long delays. As has been in effect since the beginning of the project in March 2016, Ashland Avenue is recommended as a north-south alternate route. Diversey or Addision are recommended for those heading east-west.
Public transit: CTA routes will not be affected. You can email additional questions directly to the CDOT at westernavecdot@cityofchicago.org.
