Traffic backups are expected this week as the Illinois Department of Transportation begins a three-month construction project on Interstate 57 near Chicago. Daily lane closures are expected throughout the project.

The advance work, scheduled for completion by Oct. 31, is being done in preparation for a two-year project (2002 and 2003) to resurface 12 miles of I-57 and repair bridges between the Dan Ryan Expressway (I-94) and I-80.

Crews will construct median crossovers, install temporary lighting, upgrade the shoulders to handle traffic, and perform temporary concrete pavement and bridge deck patching. For more information on the project and others visit www.dot.state.il.us and click the "Projects" link.