If you frequently take the bridge on Forest Avenue over the Des Plaines River to travel between Riverside and Brookfield, get ready to take an alternate route this summer.
Riverside announced Tuesday that the Illinois Department of Transportation is set to begin resurfacing the bridge on Monday, June 24. Weather permitting, IDOT has said the work should be done by August 9, according to the village.
“Many may not be aware of this, but the bridge is actually IDOT’s jurisdiction and is owned and maintained by them,” Village Manager Jessica Frances said at the village board’s June 20 meeting.
While the bridge is closed, IDOT signage in the area will direct traffic to take a detour to 31st Street. Those approaching from Riverside will have to make their way to Woodside Road, likely via Park Place, to turn left onto 31st Street. Those coming from the Brookfield side of the river will make their way north on First Avenue before turning right onto 31st Street.
Frances said the bridge’s sidewalks will remain open to pedestrians and cyclists during construction.
“The village did make a request to keep the bridge open to limited traffic; however, due to the width of the bridge, that request could not be accommodated, as it would be unsafe for those completing the work on the bridge,” she said.
“The village engineer will do periodic visits and report any issues to the site manager,” she added. “There will be additional traffic enforcement in the areas of the traffic detour.”
Riverside said it will announce updates on the bridge’s closure as it receives them from IDOT.
Update, June 21, 2024, 3 p.m.: This story was updated with information shared by Village Manager Jessica Frances at a Riverside village board meeting after the story was first published.
