Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) recently completed its Clark Street Bridge 10 days ahead of schedule, earning the commendation of Mayor Rahm Emanuel.
The vertical lift bridge, which spans the Chicago River, was built in 1929.
Construction on the $800,000 project began in February and included replacing concrete sidewalks with fiberglass ones and grating the sides of the bridge.
The bridge opened to vehicular, pedestrian and bicycling traffic last week.
“I want to thank all of the commuters who were patient during the reconstruction of the Clark Street Bridge,” Emanuel said. “City crews worked tirelessly to finish the project 10 days ahead of schedule. And their hard work will help alleviate congestion and deliver on our promise to provide 21st-century infrastructure for the residents of Chicago.”
Clark Street Bridge is part of the CDOT’s plan to restore historic bridges throughout the city.
CDOT is responsible for the maintenance of more than 300 bridges, 37 of which are moveable bridges. Its Capital Bridge and Bridge Maintenance Programs control all bridge design, construction, and maintenance.
In addition to bridges, CDOT has jurisdiction over the Chicago River, the Calumet River and its tributaries and Lake Michigan harbors.
It also controls all viaducts and freight tunnels.