On Wednesday, Chicago Department of Transportation Commissioner Gia Biagi and Alderman Debra Silverstein of the 50th Ward joined government partners and community members to cut the ribbon on the new Lincoln Village Pedestrian Bridge, the final link in North Shore Channel Trail.
The Lincoln Village Pedestrian Bridge is a pedestrian bicycle bridge that connects the east and west sides of the North Shore Channel Trail in Lincoln Village. Users of the train no longer have to use Lincoln Avenue to cross from one side of the channel trail to the other.
“The Lincoln Village Bridge improves safety and the recreational experience for pedestrians, joggers, bicycle-riders, and anyone pushing a stroller or using a wheelchair,” CDOT Commissioner Biagi said. “By connecting the existing shared-use paths on the east and west banks, we have closed the final gap in the 6.7-mile North Shore Channel Trail at a time when safe outdoor space for exercise and relaxation has never been in greater demand.”
Providing pedestrian and bicycle access across the North Shore Channel at Hood Avenue, the 16-foot-wide, 180-foot long bridge is the final piece of the continuous multi-use trail that connects four municipalities along North Shore Channel. A weathered steel truss bridge, the $3.4 million project was funded through federal and local monies, including funding from the state-administered, federally-funded Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program and the Open Space Impact Fee program.
“Residents of the 50th Ward and the City of Chicago finally have a beautiful and fully connected bike path,” said Alderman Debra Silverstein. “Cyclists can now enjoy a safe and comfortable walk, ride or run on the trail all the way from Lawrence Avenue into the northern suburbs.”