North Western Avenue Bridges over the North Branch of the Chicago River

1904: (Bridge Hunter)

1970s: (Satellite)

Western Avenue is the only road in Chicago that goes from the north boundary to the south boundary so it crosses a body of water more than once. South Western Avenue crossed the Chicago River, the CS&SC and the CalSag. North Western Avenue crossed just the Chicago River. I continue to be amazed how far navigation used to extend up the North Branch.

The 1904 bridge was the second bridge at this location. It was removed in 1973. What we have today is another UCEB (Ugly Concrete Eyesore Bridge).

Postcard via BridgeHunter

Jeff Nichols posted
Western Avenue Bridge, 1904. Chicago History Museum, DN-0000914
Tim Gault: Streetcar tracks!
[A comment provided a link for DN-0000914.]
Paul Jervet shared
Paul Jervet shared again
Dedication of the Western Ave. bridge in 1904.