Construction scheduling software review and Chicago traffic changes

Chicago, August 29, 2025

News Summary

A new review compares seven leading construction scheduling platforms and explains how upcoming Chicago expressway rehabilitation and a downtown street race will affect crew movement and deliveries. The software roundup highlights ProjectManager, Procore, Buildertrend, CoConstruct, Fieldwire, Smartsheet, and Contractor Foreman, weighing features like CPM, Gantt charts, mobile access, resource management, and budgeting. Local traffic plans include lane shifts, overnight closures, and ramp work that will require crews to adjust routes and delivery windows. The guidance recommends mobile, real-time scheduling tools to keep field teams aligned amid changing access and event-related closures.

Construction scheduling software reviewed and Chicago traffic and race-related closures — top updates and what they mean

A fresh look at seven popular construction scheduling and project management platforms is paired with major traffic and event-related work in Chicago. The software roundup highlights tools suited to teams from single crews to large contractors, while local transportation updates cover a major expressway rehabilitation moving faster than planned and a big street race that will bring staged road closures this summer. Both sets of information matter to contractors, project managers and anyone who plans work or travel in the area.

Key takeaways

Top construction scheduling platforms reviewed

The review covers seven standout options, each with different strengths:

How to choose

Select software based on project scale, budget and team needs. Key features to weigh include Gantt charts, real-time collaboration, mobile access, budgeting and resource management, task tracking, customizable workflows and automation. For many larger projects, integrated financial tools can be a deciding factor. For residential or small firms, mobile client communication and cost may be more important.

Local infrastructure update: expressway rehabilitation moving ahead of schedule

A major expressway rehabilitation project in the city is reported to be about one month ahead of schedule as of late May 2025. While progress is positive, the work is not complete and several overnight and ramp closures are planned in early June to prepare a new traffic configuration.

Key traffic changes begin the late night of May 31 into June 1. The express lanes will close at 11:00 p.m. Saturday and the outbound mainline will be reduced to one lane at midnight Sunday between two named junctions. Intermittent ramp closures will run through the morning with a planned configuration taking effect by 10:00 a.m. Sunday. Under the new layout, outbound lanes will shift slightly onto new pavement and the reversible lanes will remain open in the outbound direction, though some mid-gate entrances and exits will stay closed. The final phase of the project is expected to wrap up around Thanksgiving 2025. Additional ramp closures are scheduled in early and mid-June, and some on- and off-ramps are expected to reopen in the week of June 9.

Event-related street closures: downtown street race schedule and access

The annual street race setup will shorten its construction window this year compared with past years, with course build time expected to take 25 days down from previous 38 and 43 day builds. Officially, street closures tied to the course are planned to last about 18 days. Initial closures begin June 19, with more intensive closures and overnight work between late June and early July. The race dates are scheduled for July 5 and 6, and full demobilization is planned to conclude by mid-July.

City officials have laid out a detailed closure and reopening schedule that staggers parking restrictions, lane and street closures, and overnight work windows. Sidewalks and key pedestrian routes will remain open, and core transit arteries will stay available. Some park areas, gardens and museum campuses will remain accessible throughout construction and the event.

What contractors and commuters should do

Bottom line

Picking the right scheduling tool can make on-the-ground adjustments easier when infrastructure projects and large events change access and timelines. Whether a team needs a full financial and scheduling platform for large jobs, a residential-focused app, or an affordable contractor solution, options exist to match team size and budget. Simultaneously, planning around scheduled closures for a major expressway rehabilitation and a downtown street race will be essential for keeping projects and commutes on track this season.

FAQ

Which software is best for large construction firms?

For larger firms, prioritize platforms that combine scheduling with financial controls and robust reporting. Look for integrated resource management and multiple schedule views such as Gantt and calendars.

What is the most common scheduling method in construction?

The Critical Path Method (CPM) is the most common. It identifies the longest sequence of dependent tasks and highlights which tasks cannot be delayed without affecting the overall completion date.

Can small teams use these platforms affordably?

Yes. Several options offer free tiers or lower-cost plans suitable for small contractors. Evaluate the feature set carefully—mobile access, basic scheduling and documentation management are often included in entry plans.

How should I plan around the expressway and event closures?

Monitor published closure windows, adjust delivery and crew schedules, use alternate routes when possible, and ensure field teams have real-time access to schedule updates and maps.

Where can I find the detailed race closure schedule?

Detailed schedules are released by city traffic authorities and event organizers. Check official municipal or event information portals for the most current lists and timing.

Quick comparison table: key features

Platform Best for Pricing/Trial Standout features
ProjectManager Mid-size projects 30-day free trial Gantt charts, real-time resource scheduling, collaboration
Procore Medium to large construction firms No free scheduling version Integrated scheduling and financials, reporting, resource tools
Buildertrend Residential contractors Starts at $499/month Client communication, mobile app, QuickBooks integration
CoConstruct Custom home builders/remodelers Plans start $299/month; annual commitment required; no free trial Project + client tools, budgeting, QuickBooks integration
Fieldwire Jobsite crews and task scheduling Free plan; paid from $29/user/month; 14-day trial Kanban/Calendar/Gantt, documentation management, mobile updates
Smartsheet Teams needing flexible workflows Free plan available Spreadsheet-like interface, automation, customizable workflows
Contractor Foreman Small contractors From $49/month Project scheduling, mobile app, CRM features, strong user ratings

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