Research Initiated to Enhance a 15-kilometer Stretch of U.S. Highway 52 in La Salle County
Hopping onto Highways: Illinois DOT's Plans for US 52
Chain-link and cement barricades might soon appear along US 52, between Illinois 23 and Illinois 71, as the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) initiates a potential five-year project to refurbish close to nine miles of this stretch.
The proposed overhaul involves more than just a fresh coat of asphalt. IDOT has its sights set on resurfacing, replacing two bridges, and transforming two intersections into roundabouts.
One of the bridges earmarked for an overhaul is the one stretching over the Fox River, just a stone's throw west of Route 71. The other, straddling Mission Creek, isn't far behind. Meanwhile, the roundabouts are planned to replace the existing intersections: US 52 with Route 71, and a county road located about a mile west of 71.
Get ready for a detour if you're traveling on US 52 during construction, as the highway will be closed when work commences on the bridges.
While IDOT is tight-lipped about the specifics of this project, here's a sneak peek into related roadwork and initiatives:
Rolling Out Roundabouts: US 52/County Line Road
Just a stone's throw away, at the intersection of US 52 and County Line Road (Shorewood, Will/Kendall County line), a roundabout is in the making. Currently in Phase 2 (contract plan preparation and land acquisition), this project is due for construction in the years to follow. Expect construction to take 24-36 months once it begins [3].
Will County's Infrastructure Agenda
Though not directly related to US 52 between Illinois 23 and 71, Will County’s five-year Transportation Improvement Plan (2025–2030) includes projects like resurfacing Elevator Road (between Illinois 52 junctions) starting June 2025, and the resurfacing of Countyline Road (N 15000 Road to State Line Road) which began in April 2025 [5].
Nearby Bridge Projects
IDOT's District 9 has active projects in Union County (southern Illinois), but nothing directly related to US 52 between Illinois 23 and 71. There are, however, ambitious upgrade plans for IL 146 taking place in Anna [2].
Key Considerations
Remember, when it comes to highways, it's essential to differentiate between US 52 and Illinois Route 52. The resurfacing project on Elevator Road references Illinois Route 52, which may lead to confusion [5]. Additionally, IDOT emphasizes reduced speeds in construction zones, especially during 2025 Work Zone Awareness Week [4].
For the low-down on US 52 between IL 23 and IL 71, keep an eye on IDOT’s project portal and the Will County DOT interactive map [5] for updates.
- The intersection of US 52 and County Line Road, located at the Will/Kendall County line, is set to feature a roundabout as part of a future project.
- While the roundabout at US 52 and County Line Road is undergoing contract plan preparation and land acquisition, it is scheduled for construction in the subsequent years.
- In addition to the US 52 project, Will County’s Transportation Improvement Plan includes the resurfacing of Elevator Road (between Illinois 52 junctions) starting June 2025.
- Meanwhile, construction on Countyline Road from N 15000 Road to State Line Road began in April 2025, as per Will County’s five-year Transportation Improvement Plan from 2025 to 2030.
