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Spring is officially in the air and, in Chicago, that means more than just beautiful blooms and the return of outdoor dining: the city’s iconic bridges are getting ready to do some heavy lifting. Starting today, the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) kicks off its annual bridge lift season, turning the downtown riverfront into a choreographed dance of steel, machinery and recreational boaters.
If you’re planning your commute or just looking for a uniquely Chicago photo op, here's everything you need to know about this seasonal tradition.
What are the Chicago River Bridge Lifts?
The bridge lifts are a massive logistical undertaking where CDOT raises 27 movable bridges in succession along the Main and South Branches of the Chicago River. The "boat run" stretches all the way from the Ashland Avenue Bridge on the South Branch to DuSable Lake Shore Drive.
Why are the bridges lifted?
Twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall—recreational boaters need to move their vessels between their winter storage yards and their summer homes in the harbors of Lake Michigan. Because many of these sailboats and yachts have tall masts, the bridges must be raised to let them pass. Instead of raising the bridges willy-nilly, the city coordinates the lifts, resulting in a boat parade of sorts.
When will the bridge lifts happen?
Starting Wednesday, April 22, the lifts will follow a twice-weekly schedule, on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Wednesdays: Lifts typically begin at 9am
Saturdays: Lifts typically begin at 8am
Find the full spring schedule here.
How long will each bridge lift last?
Each individual bridge lift takes an average of 8 to 12 minutes. Since the bridges are raised one at a time in a "domino" fashion, traffic is only halted temporarily at each crossing.
Drivers should be aware of these temporary delays, but you'll get a show while you wait. And remember that it's a sign that summer is just around the corner, so sit back and enjoy the view while the boats go by.