Naperville closes downtown bridge, makes online flood map available
Due to rising floodwaters and the anticipated full opening of the Fawell Dam, Naperville officials have closed the Eagle Street Bridge in downtown Naperville.
City spokeswoman Linda LaCloche said the Washington Street, Main Street and Gartner Road bridges could also be closed in the near future. City officials continue to monitor the situation and will take immediate action to close these bridges if necessary.
LaCloche said residents are also asked to avoid the downtown, and motorists should plan alternate routes for the evening commute.
The Jefferson Avenue Bridge, west of downtown, is anticipated to remain open. However, should the Fawell Dam be opened, water would likely cover Jefferson Avenue near the bridge and make it impassable. The public is also advised to avoid that area if at all possible.
According to city officials, major roadways to avoid as of 4:45 p.m. Thursday include Washington Street in the downtown area and south of Royce Road, Naper Boulevard from Chicago to 75th Street, North Aurora, west of Route 59 and between Route 59 and Tudor, Ogden Avenue east of Naper Boulevard and 111th Street from 248th west to the railroad tracks.
The interactive map showing all known closed and impassable roadways is continually being updated at www.naperville.il.us as well as the Flood Operations webpage at www.naperville.il.us/floodops.aspx.