CDOT Announces Spring Bridge Lifts Along the Chicago River Starting Wednesday, April 22

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced spring bridge lifts will begin on Wednesday, April 22 with the raising of 27 bridges from South Ashland Avenue to DuSable Lake Shore Drive.

Each year, in the spring and fall, CDOT raises the movable bridges along the Main and South Branches of the Chicago River on a twice-weekly schedule on Wednesdays and Saturdays to accommodate recreational boats traveling to and from their storage yards. During these "boat runs," the bridges are typically raised one at a time, with each bridge lift taking an average of 8-12 minutes. A total of 27 bridges will be lifted in succession from the Ashland Avenue Bridge on the South Branch to DuSable Lake Shore Drive.

While a bridge is in the upright position, traffic is temporarily halted. Drivers may use alternate routes or wait until the bridge is lowered. CDOT reminds all motorists to stay alert, follow posted signs and signals, and use caution near bridge lifts to ensure the safety of crews working on site.

Bridge lifts typically begin at 8:00 a.m. on Saturdays and 9:00 a.m. on Wednesdays. The Spring 2026 schedule is available here: 2026 Spring Bridge Lift Schedule.