Ottawa Street in Joliet to Close for Two Days

Repairs to a fiber optics line will require a full closure on Illinois Route 53 between Chicago and Jackson streets.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that repairs to a fiber optics line will require a full closure for two days on Ottawa Street (Illinois 53) between Chicago and Jackson streets in Joliet. The closure will go into effect, weather permitting, from 7 a.m. on Monday, February 16 until no later than 5 p.m. on Tuesday, February 17.

Why it matters

The closure is necessary to make repairs to a line that connects and makes communication possible between the lift bridges in the downtown Joliet area. This will impact traffic flow and access in the city center during the closure.

The details

A detour will direct the public to use Chicago and Jackson streets. The public can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips. Alternate routes are encouraged. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to flaggers and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits and be on the alert for workers and equipment.

  • The closure will go into effect, weather permitting, 7 a.m. Monday, February 16, until no later than 5 p.m. Tuesday, February 17.

The players

Illinois Department of Transportation

The state agency responsible for maintaining and improving Illinois' transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and highways.

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The takeaway

This temporary closure of a key downtown Joliet street highlights the importance of the city's transportation infrastructure and the need for ongoing maintenance and repairs to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and communication between critical infrastructure like the lift bridges.