CME.01 – Rehabilitation of 1927 Cicero Ave over the Sanitary and Ship Canal Bascule Bridge

The South Cicero Ave Bascule Bridge was constructed over nine decades ago, in 1927. The bridge holds a rich history reflecting the engineering structural creativity of designing a patented double-leaf bascule bridge. The purpose of this design is to allow maritime traffic to pass through the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal.

The significance of the South Cicero Ave bridge extends beyond its functional role in the transportation system. As a historical mark, it appears as an evolution of Chicago’s structural and transportation engineering system. The bridge’s engineering and architectural features including the unique double-leaf bascule bridge design contribute to its cultural and historical importance. Regular inspections have been conducted through the years to ensure the safety and structural integrity of the South Cicero Ave bridge. The Illinois Department of Transportation requires bridges to be inspected regularly following the National Bridge Inspection Standards. Recent inspections have concluded that the Cicero Ave bridge is due for a more sustainable design. In the inspection, it has been determined that the deck and substructure are in poor condition and the superstructure in serious condition. The goal of this project is to provide a safe design that encapsulates the history of the Cicero Ave Bridge while integrating new materials. Several bridge parts need to be repaired while others need complete replacement. The mechanical components of the bridge will no longer be in use, therefore, there will be no repair of the mechanical systems. The materials being analyzed as options are stainless steel and carbon steel. These materials will be tested to develop a sustainable evaluation of their cost-effective design while incorporating a modern edge and keeping the historic aspect. The rehabilitation of the Cicero Ave bridge provides a positive impact on the community. The new materials will make the bridge safer while preserving the rich history of bascule bridges in the Chicagoland area. The goal of every bridge engineer and our design team is to provide a safe means of transportation to connect communities to wherever their next adventure lies.