Bataan-Corregidor Memorial Bridge

The Bataan-Corregidor Memorial Bridge spans the Chicago River, connecting State Street between the north and south banks in downtown Chicago. It features a bascule mechanism that opens to allow river traffic while serving both vehicles and pedestrians.

Construction of the bridge began in 1939 but faced delays due to material shortages during World War II. It was finally completed in 1949 and has served as a major traffic link in downtown Chicago since then.

Two commemorative plaques mounted on the towers at each end honor soldiers from the Chicago area who served in Bataan and Corregidor during wartime. These inscriptions form part of a series of war memorials scattered throughout the surrounding area.

The bridge is accessible to vehicles and pedestrians and opens regularly for boat traffic, which may cause brief delays. Visitors should be aware that opening times vary and alternative routes are available if crossing during frequent opening periods.

The bridge is named after two Philippine islands to honor American soldiers who fought there during the Pacific War. This detail links a Chicago crossing point to an important chapter of American military history.