Lake Street Bridge West Leaf Rebuilt, CTA Service Restored Thursday

The Chicago Department of Transportation completed the installation of the new west leaf for the Lake Street Bascule Bridge early Wednesday. CTA Green and Pink Line trains resumed normal service at 4:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 29, after crews finished the work during a planned service interruption. This milestone marks the major structural update for the 110-year-old bridge, which spans the Chicago River.

The new leaf was manufactured off site and transported to the location by barge. Construction crews removed the existing western section and positioned the replacement unit during the period when train service was suspended. The installation process involved aligning and stabilizing the new components to ensure structural integrity. Workers also rebuilt the CTA tracks, ties, guard systems, and walkways on the bridge.

Technical teams reconnected and tested power and signal systems before allowing passenger trains to run. Test trains operated on the new infrastructure to verify safety and functionality prior to the return of regular service. The Chicago Department of Transportation coordinated closely with the CTA throughout this phase of the project. During the weekend shutdown, CTA crews also completed additional repairs at the Loop and Lake Junction.

Built in 1916, the Lake Street Bridge is a double-deck, double-leaf movable structure. The lower level carries vehicles, pedestrians, and CTA buses, while the upper level supports CTA Green and Pink Line trains. The bridge also accommodates river traffic. The current rehabilitation project aims to fully restore the structure while preserving its historic character. The lower level remains closed to vehicles and pedestrians until the work is finished.

The next major phase of the project involves installing the east leaf. This work is scheduled for spring 2027 and will require a similar service interruption for Green and Pink Line trains. The Chicago Department of Transportation and CTA plan to share specific timing details and anticipated impacts as that date approaches. The entire bridge is expected to fully reopen in January 2028. More information about the project is available on the CDOT project webpage.