The Dixie Highway viaduct in Homewood will temporarily close starting September 22. This closure is part of an Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) project aimed at addressing flooding and resurfacing issues. The viaduct will remain closed for at least 90 days, according to a recent announcement from the village.
Initially, the closure was planned for June 8. However, necessary utility work caused a delay. Homewood officials stressed the importance of the project despite the inconvenience to motorists and commuters. The improvements are expected to enhance roadway safety, drainage performance, and reliability following completion.
In addition to work on the viaduct, there will be new pavement and updated traffic patterns between Spruce Road and Park Avenue. Homewood shared detour routes to guide commuters during the closure. Southbound drivers should turn right from Dixie Highway onto 175th Street, continue south on Governors Highway, and then turn left onto 183rd Street.
For northbound travelers, the detour involves turning right from Dixie Highway onto Ridge Road, then right onto Ashland Avenue, and finally left onto 171st Street.
Flooding issues under the viaduct have worsened after recent storms, including two EF-1 tornadoes in July and August. These storms temporarily made the viaduct impassable due to severe flooding. Originally scheduled for 2027, the project was expedited by IDOT due to ongoing drainage issues.
Homewood Public Works Director Joshua Burman emphasized the urgency. He noted the viaduct frequently closes due to heavy rain. “It’s long overdue with all the flooding at the north viaduct,” Burman said. Weather events have necessitated frequent closures until water levels recede.
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