DIXIE HIGHWAY VIADUCT CONSTRUCTION

Sept. 9, 2026 -- The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) will restart a major infrastructure improvement project at the Dixie Highway viaduct (originally scheduled for March 2026), with construction expected to continue through early 2027. 

The project includes critical drainage improvements beneath the viaduct to address longstanding flooding issues, along with new pavement and updated traffic patterns from Spruce Road to Park Avenue. This is a comprehensive improvement project, not just storm sewer work.

Although the project was originally scheduled for 2027, IDOT has accelerated the timeline after determining that the drainage issues needed to be addressed sooner to help reduce repeated flooding. Bidding for the project officially began in January 2026.

What you, as Homewood residents and commuters, can expect:

 
* The Dixie Highway viaduct will be fully closed for a minimum of 90 days beginning September 22.
* Detour routes will be posted in advance. Public Works will have message boards and signage to direct you for detours. 
* Access impacts and updates will be shared as details become available. Since IDOT is taking the lead on the project, we will be sure to communicate information as we receive it. 

While the temporary closure will be inconvenient for many motorists and commuters, this project is expected to provide a long-term solution to flooding under the viaduct and to improve roadway safety, drainage performance, and overall reliability once construction is complete.

Additional updates will be shared on Facebook, in our digital newsletter, and through our Village of Homewood app. As IDOT finalizes the project schedule and provides information to the Village of Homewood, we will pass the information along to you. 

Thank you for your continued patience and understanding. 

June 11, 2026 -- The date of closure has been pushed back to Thursday, June 18, 2026 per Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).  

June 1, 2026 -- While construction was originally anticipated to begin earlier this spring, the Village has now received confirmation from contractor Iroquois Paving of Watseka, Illinois, that work will officially begin Monday, June 1, 2026.

The full 90-day closure of the Dixie Highway North Viaduct is scheduled to begin on June 8, 2026. Construction is anticipated to continue through approximately October 2026.

Prior to and during the closure, IDOT will coordinate efforts to ensure detour routes are clearly posted in advance. Village staff will continue closely monitoring the project and related traffic impacts throughout construction.

Additional public notifications and reminders will be distributed through Village communication channels, including social media, the Home Sweet Homewood app and Rave alerts.

We appreciate the community’s continued patience as this important infrastructure project moves forward.