Why don't bridges ever get lonely? Because they're always making connections.
Why don't bridges ever get lonely? Because they're always making connections.
What did one bridge say to the other? 'You're looking a bit stressed.'
over MAIN BR CHICAGO RIV
402 N & 520 E
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This bridge has a Poor overall condition rating of 4 out of 9. This bridge is classified as being in poor condition, meaning one or more structural components have significant deterioration. Poor condition does not mean the bridge is unsafe to drive on, but it does mean repairs or replacement may be needed.
The bridge carries 102,000 vehicles per day and is 89 years old (reconstructed in 1988).
Its sufficiency rating of 46.8 places it below the national average of 63.6.
The NBI records a navigation clearance of 22 feet — the minimum vertical space below the bridge deck. The total height of the bridge structure (including towers, railings, and superstructure) may be higher.
For travelers with bridge anxiety
This bridge has some features that may be challenging for travelers with bridge anxiety. See the tips below for a more comfortable crossing.
This bridge is 352 feet long — a short crossing, about 10-15 seconds.
A movable bridge — it may occasionally stop for boat traffic.
About 22 feet above ground — moderate height, similar to a 3-5 story building.
About 102,000 vehicles cross daily — very heavy traffic, high congestion risk.
The deck is 107 feet wide with multiple lanes — easy to stay in a center lane.
This bridge crosses over water. Focus on the road ahead — the water is far below.
This comfort score is designed to help individuals with bridge anxiety plan their travel. All bridges in the National Bridge Inventory are regularly inspected and deemed safe for travel. This is not medical advice — if you experience severe anxiety, please consult a healthcare professional.
Year Built
1937
89 years old (rebuilt 1988)
Structure Type
Steel Movable (Bascule)
Total Length
352 ft
107.4 m
Deck Width
107 ft
32.7 m
Spans
1
sections between supports
Max Span
264 ft
longest unsupported section (80.5 m)
Traffic Lanes
8 lanes
Two-way traffic
Clearance Below
22 ft
navigation clearance under deck
Clearance height compared to familiar objects
Height shown is the navigation clearance below the bridge deck. The total height of the bridge structure (including towers and superstructure) may be higher.
Daily Traffic
102,000vehicles/day
41.88853°N, 87.61417°W
Steel Movable (Bascule)
A movable bridge can change position to allow passage of boats or other traffic. Steel movable bridges include lift, bascule (drawbridge), and swing types.
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Data from the National Bridge Inventory (NBI), maintained by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
Data year: 2025. Conditions may have changed since the last inspection.
This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used as the sole basis for any decisions related to bridge safety or transportation planning. Always consult official sources and local authorities for the most current data.