La Salle Street Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids La Salle Street Bridge |
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View of LaSalle Street Bridge from Wells Street Bridge
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| Coordinates | 41°53′15″N 87°37′57″W / 41.887484°N 87.632474°W |
| Carries | Automobiles Pedestrians |
| Crosses | Chicago River |
| Locale | Chicago, Cook County, Illinois |
| Official name | La Salle Street Bridge |
| Other name(s) | Marshall Suloway Bridge |
| Maintained by | Chicago Department of Transportation |
| ID number | 000016603226800 |
| Characteristics | |
| Total length | 242 feet (74 m) |
| Width | 86 feet (26 m) |
| Longest span | 220 feet (67 m) |
| Clearance above | 18.7 feet (5.7 m) |
| History | |
| Designer | Donald Becker |
| Opened | 1928 |
| Statistics | |
| Daily traffic | 12050 |
The La Salle Street Bridge is a special kind of bridge in Chicago, Illinois. It is also known as the Marshall Suloway Bridge. This bridge helps cars and people cross the main part of the Chicago River. It connects two important areas: the Near North Side and the Loop. The bridge was built a long time ago, in 1928.
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Discover the La Salle Street Bridge
The La Salle Street Bridge is a very important part of Chicago's transportation system. It helps thousands of cars and people move between busy parts of the city every day. This bridge is not just a way to cross the river; it's also a cool example of engineering.
How Does a Bascule Bridge Work?
The La Salle Street Bridge is a "double-leaf trunnion bascule bridge." That's a fancy name for a bridge that can open up! Imagine two big seesaws meeting in the middle. Each side, or "leaf," of the bridge can lift up. This allows tall boats and ships to pass underneath on the Chicago River.
When the bridge opens, each leaf pivots on a strong pin called a "trunnion." Large counterweights help balance the heavy bridge sections. This makes it easier for powerful motors to lift the bridge. It's like a giant lever system!
Connecting Chicago's Neighborhoods
This bridge plays a key role in connecting different parts of Chicago. The Loop is the city's main downtown area, full of tall buildings and businesses. The Near North Side is known for its shops, restaurants, and homes. The La Salle Street Bridge makes it easy for people to travel between these two vibrant areas.
It carries both cars and pedestrians, meaning people can drive or walk across it. This helps keep traffic flowing smoothly in a busy city like Chicago.
Key Features of the Bridge
The La Salle Street Bridge was built in 1928, which means it's almost 100 years old! It has been an important part of Chicago's history for a long time. The main part of the bridge that opens is about 220 feet (67 meters) long. The entire bridge is about 242 feet (74 meters) long and 86 feet (26 meters) wide.
The bridge was designed by a person named Donald Becker. It is maintained by the Chicago Department of Transportation. This department makes sure the bridge stays safe and works well for everyone.
