Construction scheduling software review and Chicago traffic changes

Construction Scheduling Software Update and Chicago Traffic Impacts

In construction planning, selecting the right scheduling software can greatly influence efficiency, collaboration, and budget control. A recent overview highlights seven standout scheduling and project management options, covering a range of needs from small contractor teams to large, multi-project operations. At the same time, traffic management updates related to the Kennedy Expressway rehabilitation and the NASCAR Chicago Street Race are shaping work and travel around Chicago, with schedule-driven closures and changes in both directions. The most widely cited scheduling approach remains the Critical Path Method (CPM), which identifies the longest sequence of dependent tasks and marks tasks that cannot be delayed without delaying the overall project.

Key criteria when choosing scheduling software include Gantt charts for visual timelines, real-time collaboration, mobile access, budgeting, resource management, user-friendly interfaces, task management, customizable workflows, and automation. The best tool depends on project scale, budget, and team size, with popular choices often aligning with specific needs: Procore for medium and large construction companies, Buildertrend for residential contractors, and Smartsheet for flexible spreadsheet-style workflows.

Seven Scheduling and Project Management Options

• ProjectManager – described as a robust online project management tool for construction scheduling, organizing tasks, costs, and resources; includes a Gantt chart and real-time resource scheduling; emphasizes collaboration; offers a 30-day free trial.
• Procore – a complete construction management platform that integrates scheduling with financial management; supports multiple views, real-time updates, and robust reporting; positioned for medium to large projects; does not offer a free version and includes extensive resource management.
• Buildertrend – cloud-based solution aimed at residential contractors; covers builder scheduling, project budgeting, client communication; mobile app for on-site updates; real-time collaboration; includes lead management and QuickBooks integration; pricing starts at $499 per month.
• CoConstruct – tailored for custom home builders and remodelers; combines project management, budgeting, and client communication; mobile access and QuickBooks integration; noted as relatively expensive with three pricing tiers and annual commitment; no free trial.
• Fieldwire – field-focused management tool emphasizing task and crew scheduling; supports real-time site updates, Kanban, Calendar, and Gantt views; strong documentation management; flexible pricing with a free version for small teams and paid tiers starting at $29 per user per month.
• Smartsheet – versatile, spreadsheet-like project management tool suitable for construction staff scheduling; supports customizable workflows and automation; enables collaboration; offers a free plan for basic features.
• Contractor Foreman – affordable construction management platform designed for contractors; includes project management, labor scheduling, a mobile app, and CRM features; pricing starts at $49 per month; highly rated by users and positioned for small businesses and independent contractors.

In comparative terms, Procore stands out for integrating scheduling with financial tools, making it attractive for larger efforts. Buildertrend emphasizes contractor-client communication, Smartsheet excels in customizable workflows and automation, Fieldwire focuses on real-time on-site collaboration and documentation, and each option provides unique strengths for different project sizes and teams.

Additional Facts About Software Selection

Beyond the seven options, buyers should weigh features such as real-time updates, mobile accessibility, budgeting tools, resource management, and automation. The list of seven tools reflects a spectrum of needs from smaller teams to large companies, with emphasis on matching project requirements to the platform’s strengths.

Kennedy Expressway Rehabilitation Project — Traffic Impacts

A local progress report dated May 29, 2025 indicates the Kennedy Construction Project is running about a month ahead of its originally planned schedule, though work remains underway. A new traffic configuration will shift outbound traffic through the Kennedy express and local lanes between Addison Street and Montrose Avenue to reach O’Hare International Airport, effective June 1. Since the third and final phase began in March, express lane exits toward O’Hare have been limited, with drivers redirected to the Edens (I-94) to Foster Avenue.

Preparations for the June 1 change involve overnight disruptions on the weekend prior (late May). The express lanes will be closed on the night of May 31, and outbound Kennedy traffic will be reduced to a single lane from Addison Street to Montrose Avenue starting at midnight on June 1. Intermittent ramp closures will occur during that window, with the new layout transitioning to the outbound lanes shifting slightly to the left on fresh pavement between Addison and Montrose. The reversible lanes will remain open in the outbound direction, while the two mainline outbound lanes are closed at a time under the new configuration. Reversible mid-gate entrances and exits will stay closed during this phase. Officials say the change is scheduled about a month ahead of original plans, and the larger rehabilitation project is not expected to finish until Thanksgiving of the same year.

Additional June closures include on-ramps and off-ramps at Ontario Street, Division Street, North and Fullerton avenues, and several others as the year progresses. Current closure statuses included several ramps and exits around Addison, Montrose, and the Edens corridor, with certain ramps reopening in mid-June. The overall project budget has seen revisions, with costs rising to a figure around $169 million. Motorists are advised to plan for significant delays, travel during non-peak hours where possible, and consider alternative routes or public transportation options to navigate the corridor safely.

NASCAR Chicago Street Race — Course Construction and Closures

For the 2025 event, the construction schedule to build the course was shortened to about 25 days from start to finish, a reduction from the prior year’s 38 days and from the 2023 timeframe of 43 days. Street closures related to course setup and race operations are planned to last about 18 days, with the first closure beginning mid-June. The race is slated for July 5 and 6 in and around Grant Park, and organizers note the course remains essentially the same as previous years with some seating adjustments. Accessibility remains for businesses and residences during setup, race weekend, and teardown, with several nearby parks and campus areas staying open throughout the event.

Key closures include major thoroughfares such as Balbo, Columbus, Ida B. Wells, Congress Plaza, Michigan Avenue, Roosevelt Road, Monroe, and several others, with a detailed schedule guiding ramp and street closures throughout the run of the event. Pedestrian routes and select lakefront paths are kept open, and public transit agencies are increasing service to accommodate spectators. The event schedule emphasizes coordinated demobilization to complete closures and reopen streets by the targeted dates, with some closures lasting into early July and others reopening progressively after the event ends.

Summary: Selecting Tools to Support Scheduling and Safety

Across software choices and urban work, the central theme remains clear: use scheduling platforms that align with project scale, team size, and budgeting constraints, while office-to-field coordination and on-site updates remain critical for success. The seven platforms each offer different strengths, and the best fit will depend on the project type, whether residential, commercial, or large-scale industrial, as well as the need for integration with financial tools, client communication, and field collaboration. When planning for a construction project or a major city infrastructure effort, clarity in timelines and proactive communication with stakeholders are essential components of achieving efficient, safe, and timely outcomes.

FAQ

Key Software Features Table

Note: All cost figures, feature descriptions, and timeframes reflect the data provided in the overview and are subject to change by product updates and project schedules.