IDOT closes Baxter Road ramp to I-39 to repair ‘critical issues’

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — The Illinois Department of Transportation has ordered the ramp from Baxter Road to the northbound Interstate 39 to be closed to traffic after an inspection identified “critical issues” in need of repair.

IDOT said the inspection was conducted in late July, and said the closure is necessary “is necessary to deter vehicles weighing over 20 tons gross from crossing the Kishwaukee River bridge just north of the Baxter Road interchange.”

Traffic can detour using Baxter Road, Illinois 251 and Bypass U.S. 20.

In addition, the right lane of the bridge has been closed to traffic, and semis with loads over 20 tons must exit at the Illinois 72 interchange and detour using westbound Illinois 72, northbound Illinois 251, and eastbound Bypass U.S. 20 to travel on northbound I-39.