Public hearing on March 23 to discuss Pioneer Road bridge closure in Grundy County

GRUNDY COUNTY - The Illinois Department of Transportation is inviting the public to attend an informational public hearing on Monday, March 23 to view and comment on the preliminary engineering study for the proposed permanent removal of the bridge that carries Pioneer Road over Interstate 80 in Grundy County. The event will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. at Nettle Creek School District 24C, 8820 Scott School Road, Morris.

The public is invited to stop by at any time during the meeting to view graphics and displays, exhibits, project plans, and ask questions and provide feedback to IDOT staff. There will be no formal presentation.

The hearing site is accessible to people with disabilities. Individuals requiring special assistance, such as interpreters or other accommodations, are encouraged to contact Lisa Chrzasc at least five days prior to the hearing: 222 S. Riverside Plaza, Suite 2450, Chicago, IL 60606, 312-930-5100 (telephone); 815-434-8553 (fax), or 800-526-0844 (TTY).

The proposed project involves the permanent removal of the Pioneer Road bridge, located approximately 3 miles east of the Seneca interchange, and the construction of cul-de-sacs. Nearby alternate routes, including those crossings at Nettle School Road and Saratoga Road, will remain accessible during and after construction. More information can be found on the project website.

An environmental document supporting categorical exclusion has been prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and the requirements outlined in 23 CFR 771.111.

IDOT is seeking public input on all aspects of the project. Comments can be submitted at the meeting or emailed to [email protected]. They may also be mailed to:

Illinois Department of Transportation

700 E. Norris Drive

Ottawa, IL 61350

Attn: Kenneth Banga, P.E.

Comments received by April 6, 2026, will be made part of the public record and considered as the preliminary engineering study is finalized.

Over the next six years, IDOT is planning to improve 7,107 lane miles of highway and 8.4 million square feet of bridge deck as part of Rebuild Illinois, which is investing $33.2 billion into all modes of transportation. Accomplishments through Year Six of Rebuild Illinois include almost $20.8 billion of improvements statewide to 21,309 lane miles of highway, 815 bridges and 1,181 additional safety improvements.

For IDOT District 3 updates on X, follow us at @IDOTDistrict3. View area construction details on IDOT's traveler information map at www.GettingAroundIllinois.com.