The Chicago Department of Transportation announced on April 14 that the pedestrian bridge over the Kennedy Expressway near the Gladstone Park Metra station will be closed for repairs beginning June 5. The closure is expected to last about two months.
The project affects residents and commuters who use the bridge at 5500 N. Austin Ave., especially those traveling between neighborhoods or heading to nearby schools. Officials said they delayed the start of construction in response to concerns from neighbors about student safety during the school year.
Erica Schroeder, spokesperson for the Chicago Department of Transportation, said in an email that “the closure was initially slated to begin in May, but after hearing from neighbors concerned about how the closure could impact students traveling to and from nearby Hitch Elementary School, CDOT decided to push back the start date until school was out.” She added that some work may begin before June but full closure will not take place until then.
Repairs on the 68-year-old structure are estimated at $723,000 and will include fixing bridge bearings as well as concrete patching on both deck and diaphragms. During construction, pedestrians will be rerouted more than half a mile away via Nagle Avenue crossing.
Officials have stated that they aim to minimize disruption by timing repairs outside of school sessions and providing alternative routes.
