Lincoln Park Passerelle

Have you ever crossed a bridge that was considered one of the country’s best structures? The Lincoln Park Passerelle is just such a bridge. It is a through arch pedestrian bridge that spans Lake Shore Drive, connecting Lincoln Park to North Avenue Beach. Built in 1940, this bridge was designed by Ralph H. Burke and was completed in 1940. It is a contributing property to the Lincoln Park Historic District. The bridge was featured in the Museum of Modern Art’s exhibit “Built in USA: 1932–44”, and the museum designated it one of the country’s 47 best structures. The Lincoln Park Passerelle is an impressive example of modern architecture. It was designed to be both functional and beautiful, and its sleek, minimalist design has stood the test of time. It is a reminder of a bygone era when Chicago was a center of innovation and design. Today, the bridge is a popular spot for pedestrians and cyclists alike. It offers stunning views of the lakefront, and it’s a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. It was even designed with a ramp on both sides of the bridge to provide wheelchair-accessible access. It was almost demolished in 2007 because the city felt it would be cheaper to replace it with a new one. Thankfully, it was saved and remains a treasured part of Chicago.