Harrison Street Viaduct Reopens After Reconstruction

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) has announced that the Harrison Street Viaduct, spanning from Canal Street to the Chicago River, will reopen to traffic on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. following a full reconstruction.

The project replaced the aging bridge structure with a new reinforced concrete deck supported by steel beams and piers attached to the foundation. According to CDOT, the reconstruction reinforces the bridge, meets current safety requirements, and is designed to prolong its lifespan. Enhancements also include complete roadway resurfacing, ADA-compliant sidewalks, and protected bike lanes in both directions to improve safety and access.

The Harrison Street Viaduct reconstruction presented unique challenges as it extends directly over rail lines leading into Chicago Union Station. To minimize disruption, CDOT coordinated with Amtrak, Metra, Union Station, property owners, and community groups, ensuring rail operations continued and businesses remained accessible throughout the project.

This project is part of CDOT’s broader initiative to rehabilitate viaducts above Union Station and its rail network. Currently, CDOT is engaged in a multi-phase effort to rebuild four Canal Street viaducts between Taylor Street and Madison Street, a corridor that serves as both an entryway to the Central Business District and the roof of Union Station.

More details are available at cdotcanalprojects.com.