CHICAGO — Get ready to witness Chicago’s expressways transform as the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) embarks on a mission to clear trash and debris from the roadsides. The Windy City’s iconic interchanges, ramps, and shoulders are set to receive a sparkling makeover in the coming weeks.
Scheduled to kick off during the weeks of Aug. 21 and Aug. 28, this litter removal operation is part of IDOT’s ongoing efforts to maintain the cleanliness of the expressway system in Cook and the collar counties. Daytime litter removal is expected to take place intermittently, with crews and equipment making appearances on the shoulders.
Motorists are urged to exercise caution and adhere to the law by slowing down and moving over when encountering maintenance teams at work. Not only is this an act of responsibility, but it’s also the law. Ensuring the safety of both drivers and maintenance personnel is paramount.
While the scheduled locations are weather-dependent and subject to change, the initial plan includes several major expressways. Among them, the Eisenhower Expressway (Interstate 290) will see cleanup efforts stretching from Ida B. Wells to Lake Cook Road. Meanwhile, the Stevenson Expressway (Interstate 55) will witness the cleanup operation from DuSable Lake Shore Drive (U.S. 41) to Reed Road.
Heading south, Interstate 80 will see its tidying span from Illinois 7 (Larkin Avenue) to the Kendall County line. Those traveling on the Bishop Ford Expressway (Interstate 94) should anticipate a litter-free route from the Stoney Island Branch to 95th Street. Finally, the Dan Ryan Expressway (Interstate 90/94) will receive some TLC, with cleanup activities spanning from Ida B. Wells to Interstate 57.
