PAXTON, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Motorists traveling on I-57 northbound near milepost 257, just south of Paxton, are being advised to expect delays this afternoon as the right lane has been closed due to pavement buckling.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the lane closure was put in place around 1:30 p.m. after crews discovered a section of the roadway had buckled, creating a safety hazard for drivers. IDOT crews are currently on scene making repairs.
Only one lane remains open in the affected area, and traffic is moving slowly as a result. The repair work is expected to take approximately two hours, with full lane access anticipated by late afternoon, weather permitting.
IDOT is urging drivers to use caution, reduce speed, and watch for workers and equipment in the area. Alternate routes are not currently recommended, but drivers may want to allow extra travel time or delay travel if possible.
The cause of the buckling is under investigation, though such incidents are often linked to recent extreme temperatures or underlying structural stress.