I-290 Harlem and Austin exits

[chicago_jr]

The exits and entrances for Harlem ave and Austin Blvd on I 290 in Chicago are both on the left, though none of the other exits/entrances are on the right. Anyone have any idea as to why Harlem and Austin are different? 

[Revive 755]

For Austin, I'm guessing left side ramps were used due to the proximity of ramps for Central Avenue, and possibly to avoid taking more land from Columbus Park.

As for Harlem Ave, I'm going to randomly guess the left SPUI was used due to anticipated traffic volumes and that the modern SPUI had not been invented when I-290 was designed.

[rmsandw]

I always assumed it had to do with the fact you were going from the City of Chicago to the City of Oak Park.  Between Austin and Harlem, the two city streets run almost on a ledge along the cut out for the highway.  Another thought may have been with the right or way for the CSX Railroad and the CTA Blue Line, could make ramp difficult to put in years ago.  Just some thoughts...

[3467]

I think it was ROW IDOT just announced meetings for the Eisehower study that would  make it 8 lanes and get rid of those left exits its under public hearings maybe someone on the list could go

[Brandon]

I think it was ROW IDOT just announced meetings for the Eisehower study that would  make it 8 lanes and get rid of those left exits its under public hearings maybe someone on the list could go

Getting rid of them and making the Ike eight lanes between the Tri-State and Austin would be for the best.  No silly HOV or bus lanes needed, please.  Extend the Blue line instead.