The Chicago Department of Transportation has announced the start of a $40-million rehabilitation project on the Cortland Street Bridge over the North Branch of the Chicago River. Beginning Sept. 22 the bridge will be closed to vehicle traffic in both directions between Mendell Street and Kingsbury Street. The closure is expected to last 18 to 24 months.

Built in the early 1900s, the Cortland Street Bridge is the oldest bascule bridge in Chicago. The project will replace the bridge deck, steel floor system, and counterweights, and install new concrete-filled grating, timber sidewalks, railings, and lighting. The bridge houses will also be rehabilitated. The work is designed to preserve the historic character of the bridge while extending its service life by at least 40 years.

Traffic will be detoured around the construction zone, and CDOT encourages drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to plan alternate routes. One sidewalk and one bike lane will remain open for non-motorized traffic, with additional detours as needed. Visit Chicago Construction News for full details!