Cortland Street Drawbridge

The Cortland Street Drawbridge is a steel bascule structure crossing the Chicago River, designed with a counterweight system for lifting. Two-way traffic lanes and separate paths for pedestrians and cyclists make it an active transportation link.

Built in 1902, it was the first of its kind in the United States with a fixed-trunnion bascule system. It set a new standard for drawbridge design that spread throughout the city.

The bridge shows early 1900s construction methods and continues to shape the look of the Chicago River today. Visitors can see the distinctive design that influenced many other crossings in the city.

The bridge sits at West Cortland Street and is easily accessible on foot or by bicycle. The location offers good views of the river and surrounding neighborhoods.

The lifting mechanism was shut down long after completion and now remains permanently locked in place. Yet the original mechanical parts are still visible, documenting a function the bridge no longer performs.

Location: Illinois

Official opening: 1902

Made from material: steel

GPS coordinates: 41.91700,-87.66400

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:00