Naperville Begins Work To Replace 110-Year-Old Railroad Bridge
NAPERVILLE, IL — Construction has officially begun to replace a 110-year-old railroad bridge over North Aurora Road in Naperville, marking the final stage of a decades-long infrastructure project. The replacement is part of the North Aurora Road Improvement Project, which city officials say will reduce congestion and improve safety for residents and commuters.
Long-Awaited North Aurora Road Improvements
The bridge replacement is the culmination of more than 20 years of planning. The original agreement for the project was signed in 2006 by Naperville, the Naperville Township Road District, and the city of Aurora, with Naperville taking the lead. The plan was revived in 2015 after years of delay.
City officials explained that when the road was just two lanes, traffic congestion made it difficult for residents to safely exit driveways and caused an increase in crashes. With traffic expected to grow, the need for a wider roadway and new bridge became urgent.
The first phase, completed in 2023, widened North Aurora Road to five lanes between Fairway Drive and Frontenac Road, while also adding a multi-use trail, sidewalks, and a noise-reduction wall.
New Bridge And Safety Upgrades
The current phase focuses on building a new railroad bridge, alongside several additional improvements. A pump station is being added to enhance drainage at the underpass, and a temporary bridge will be used to maintain traffic during construction.
The total cost of the bridge replacement is estimated at $52 million, with work expected to be completed by the end of 2027, according to a city news release.
What Drivers Can Expect
This fall, most of the construction will take place on the shoulder of the roadway, with intermittent lane closures. At least one lane will remain open in each direction.
By spring, drivers should expect detours as crews remove the existing bridge, relocate a major gas pipeline, and begin building the replacement structure. Officials encourage residents to plan ahead and use alternate routes when possible.
Why This Project Matters For Naperville
The North Aurora Road corridor is a critical connection for Naperville residents and commuters. By expanding lanes, updating infrastructure, and replacing a bridge that has stood for over a century, the city aims to improve traffic flow and reduce crashes while preparing for continued growth in the region.
Residents can stay updated on project progress and detour information by visiting the city’s official page at naperville.il.us/north-aurora-improvements.
Do you drive through North Aurora Road regularly? Share your thoughts on the construction and how it affects your commute at NapervilleLocal.com, where we bring you the latest updates on local transportation projects and community news.
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