Chicago River Bridge Lifts Begin This Week—Here’s What You Should Know

If your daily route takes you through downtown Chicago, it might be worth adjusting your timing this week.

The city’s annual bridge lift season is back, with the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) beginning scheduled lifts along the Chicago River to make way for spring boating traffic.

When the Bridge Lifts Start

Starting Wednesday, April 22, CDOT will begin lifting 27 bridges along the main and south branches of the river.

The schedule will run twice a week:

Wednesdays at 9:00 a.m.
Saturdays at 8:00 a.m.

Each lift typically lasts between 8 to 12 minutes, though traffic can take longer to fully clear once bridges come back down.

Why This Happens Every Year

Bridge lifts are a seasonal routine in Chicago, timed with the start of boating season.

As temperatures warm up, boats stored inland during the winter begin making their way back to Lake Michigan. Raising the bridges allows vessels to pass safely through the river system and into the lake.

It’s one of those moments where the city’s infrastructure shifts to match the season.

What to Expect If You’re Commuting

During each lift, all vehicle traffic stops at the affected bridges. That can create short backups, especially during midweek mornings when downtown activity is already picking up.

If you’re driving, it’s worth:

Giving yourself a few extra minutes
Avoiding river crossings during scheduled lift times
Staying alert near bridge areas where traffic patterns temporarily change

Pedestrians and cyclists will also need to wait until bridges are lowered before crossing.

A Small Delay That Signals a Bigger Shift

While the lifts can slow things down briefly, they also mark the return of a more active Chicago riverfront.

More boats, busier outdoor spaces, and increased foot traffic along the river all tend to follow. For many, it’s a sign that the city is moving fully into spring and summer mode.

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