Canal Street Railroad Bridge

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Why does that bridge look so crooked? We’re standing before the Canal Street Railroad Bridge. It doesn’t quite meet the river at a right angle, does it? The Canal Street Railroad Bridge is unique. It’s actually the only vertical-lift bridge in all of Chicago. Built in 1914, it replaced an older swing bridge. What’s fascinating is that the railroad kept running during the construction! Imagine that, trains chugging along right above the river as workers assembled this massive structure overhead. The Canal Street Railroad Bridge was designed by the renowned bridge engineers Waddell and Harrington. When it was completed, it boasted the heaviest lift span in the entire country. That’s saying something! Today, it’s a vital link for Metra, Amtrak, and even freight trains, carrying them across the South Branch of the Chicago River. Next time you see a train rumbling across, take a moment to appreciate the ingenuity of the Canal Street Railroad Bridge. It’s a true testament to Chicago’s engineering prowess and a vital artery in the city’s transportation network.

After discovering the story of Canal Street Railroad Bridge in Chicago, you may wonder how to explore even more. Explory makes it simple: our digital Chicago guide connects culture, history, and unique experiences. With the interactive Chicago city guide, you can dive deeper into the local atmosphere and follow curated routes that turn your visit into a memorable Chicago city tour. Explory is designed for authentic Chicago exploration. Each Chicago guide highlights iconic places and uncovers Chicago hidden gems that many visitors never find. With the immersive Chicago audio guide, stories and sounds bring every step to life. Our flexible Chicago city guide makes it easy to plan routes, discover landmarks, and enjoy storytelling that connects you with the city. Whether your passion is art, history, or local culture, Explory ensures your Chicago city tour is unique. With a strong focus on Chicago exploration and surprising Chicago hidden gems, Explory gives you more than sightseeing – it creates real discovery. Download the Explory App to expand your journey. Discover more than 300 cities and over 500,000 POIs and stories worldwide. Whether you need a Chicago guide, a reliable Chicago audio guide, or a flexible Chicago city tour, Explory is your key to travel differently.

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