As requested yesterday, we have some progress photos taken last week of the Halsted Street Viaduct and Chicago Avenue Bridge projects, although the bridge is much easier to see. We don’t have a drone, but as has been mentioned here, there are overhead shots out there of the viaduct, and it has come a long way since demolition began last year.
Screengrab of the December 2025 34th Ward newsletter, confirming reports of December 2026 completion estimate.
Viaduct work from Chicago Avenue, just west of Halsted Street. Photo by Daniel Schell
Through the glass, you can see a portion of the replaced viaduct just north of Chicago Avenue. Photo by Daniel Schell
On Chicago Avenue, work is ongoing for the new bridge piers on either side of the Chicago River’s North Branch. The west side is a much busier and more involved project as it connects to the viaduct. The old east pier has been demolished and rebar and concrete work continues on the new one.
Bally’s Casino forms the backdrop for work on the Chicago Avenue Bridge’s west pier. Photo by Daniel Schell
Rebar for the east pier. Photo by Daniel Schell
Work on the east pier from the riverwalk. Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
As was widely reported, both projects were expected to be done by the end of the year. There have been no announcements to the contrary, but it does seem the viaduct looks closer to that deadline than does the bridge. In the meantime, avoid driving through the are if at all possible. The street closures are not pleasant.
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Is it me or does it look like the bridge decking iron work is being done on the West shore and they are going to lift it all into place, then pour the concrete.