After nearly a year of closures, the reversible express lanes on the Kennedy Expressway are finally set to reopen Monday, bringing much-needed relief to commuters. These lanes, a critical part of Chicago’s infrastructure, have been closed since March for a major rehabilitation project. While the reopening marks progress, it also highlights the ongoing challenges of a multi-year construction effort.
The reversible lanes were initially slated to reopen on October 31, but delays caused by issues with the software controlling the lanes pushed the timeline back significantly. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has since resolved those issues, ensuring the lanes are safe and operational for the hundreds of thousands of drivers who rely on the Kennedy daily.
Despite this milestone, the reopening doesn’t signal the end of construction-related disruptions. The Kennedy Expressway, which serves as a vital artery for Chicago commuters, remains amid a multi-phase, multi-million-dollar rehabilitation effort that will continue to impact traffic. The express lanes, which have sat dormant for 10 months, have been sorely missed by the 275,000 drivers who use the expressway daily. Their return is expected to alleviate some congestion, but the challenges are far from over.
“I drive 39 miles from home to work, so that will be good relief,” said Omar Lopez, a regular Kennedy commuter. For drivers like Lopez, who have endured months of backups and detours, the reopening of the express lanes represents a welcome reprieve from the traffic grind.
IDOT began testing the upgraded LED lighting and signage for the express lanes earlier this year. While the department had initially projected the project’s completion by late fall 2024, the timeline was extended to address safety concerns and ensure all components were functioning as intended. This decision, though necessary, added to the frustrations of drivers eager to see the project completed.
Karen Ma, another frequent user of the Kennedy, expressed her exasperation. “It’s like, just get it all done,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what happens in Chicago. You’re always stuck in traffic.” Her sentiment echoes the feelings of many drivers who have come to view construction as a constant in the city.
The last major rehabilitation of the Kennedy Expressway was completed in the early 1990s, and traffic issues have persisted ever since. This latest project aims to address decades of wear and tear, with improvements that include fresh pavement, modernized lighting, and clearer signage. When the express lanes reopen, drivers will notice a smoother ride and enhanced visibility, but they’ll also have to contend with the next phase of construction.
Phase three of the Kennedy project is set to begin soon after the express lanes reopen. This phase involves patching pavement, replacing overhead signs, installing additional LED lighting, and demolishing and rebuilding 19 outbound bridges. Starting at Ohio Street and moving north to Lawrence Avenue, the work is expected to last through the fall, marking the conclusion of three years of continuous construction. However, many commuters remain skeptical about the timeline. “Maybe we need to have faith, but I don’t know,” Ma said, voicing concerns shared by many.
The completion of phase three will depend heavily on favorable weather conditions. A snow-heavy winter or unpredictable spring weather could cause further delays, complicating an already ambitious schedule. IDOT has acknowledged these challenges but remains committed to completing the project as efficiently as possible while prioritizing safety.
For commuters like Josh Horchler, the reopening of the express lanes is a step in the right direction. “Hopefully, it will alleviate a little traffic,” he said. “In Chicago, there’s winter and construction, right? There are two seasons.” This wry observation captures the reality for many Chicagoans, who have learned to navigate the city’s perpetual roadwork with a mix of patience and humor.
While the reopening of the express lanes is a significant milestone, it’s clear that the journey toward a fully rehabilitated Kennedy Expressway is far from over. For now, drivers can look forward to a smoother commute as they prepare to hit the freshly paved express lanes. However, they’ll need to remain patient as the broader project continues, shaping the future of one of Chicago’s most important thoroughfares.
