NORTH MAYFAIR — Prepare for some major traffic snarls along Foster Avenue, beginning next week and running into October.
The Illinois Department of Transportation announced plans to rebuild the Foster Avenue bridge across the Chicago River, requiring a complete shutdown of the thoroughfare between Pulaski and Cicero avenues, starting Sept. 7 (if weather cooperates).
The road will remain fully closed for the duration of the project, which IDOT estimates will last through mid-October. During that time, the bridge will also be closed to pedestrians and cyclists.
Due to the bridge's existing structure, construction can not be staged to allow for any traffic to pass through the work area, according to IDOT.
The recommended detour will send westbound traffic south on Pulaski to Lawrence, then north on Cicero to rejoin Foster. The eastbound detour will follow the reverse route.
The bridge work will impede access to the Edens Expressway, Northeastern Illinois University, LaBagh Woods and Gompers Park among other destinations. IDOT is warning motorists to expect delays.
Cost of the project is approximately $310,000. The work is expected to extend the life of the bridge for several years.
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