The Chicago Street Bridge, a four-span structure built in 1939, serves as a gateway into downtown and carries an average of 6,000 vehicles per day. It includes two lanes of one-way traffic, has parking on both sides and is frequently used by bicyclists. The bridge is located near the Elgin train station, served by Metra’s Milwaukee District West line, and the Pace Bus Elgin Transportation Center. Although not listed as a historic structure, it holds historical and aesthetic significance within the city’s Central Business District. Future bridge and roadway designs will include recommendations to improve transportation mobility for all types of users while maintaining the bridge’s unique historic and aesthetic characteristics.

About the Bridge Phases

Both the Chicago and Kimball Street Bridge projects will be implemented in three phases, but may move from phase-to-phase at different times:

  • Phase 1

    This phase includes early engineering and environmental studies. During this phase the team reviews conditions, tests options and selects a preferred solution.

  • Phase 2

    This phase includes design and land acquisition. The city develops construction plans and secures any needed right of way.

  • Phase 3

    When funding is secured, this phase includes construction in coordination with local communities and other planned projects.

Public Information Meetings

The City of Elgin held a public information meeting at the Centre of Elgin to introduce preliminary engineering studies for the Chicago Street Bridge project.

The meeting objectives were to:

  • Provide an overview of the study process
  • Gather public input on transportation issues and community needs
  • Share next steps for the project

Watch the videos below to learn more about the plans and view the presentation.

The City of Elgin held a public information meeting on July 18, 2024. The meeting introduced preliminary engineering studies for the Chicago Street Bridge, Kimball Street Bridge and Fox River Trail improvements. Click the link below to watch.

Public Information Meeting #1

Reunión Pública Informativa #1

Escuche el audio en español. También hay subtítulos en español disponibles.