Michigan Avenue Bridge

The place where Michigan Avenue crosses the Chicago River is one of the most iconic urban spaces in the world.

The idea for the Michigan Avenue Bridge was first conceived when architect Daniel Burnham outlined his "Plan for Chicago", written in 1909. When it came time to build the bridge, Edward Bennett was chosen to draw the design, and work on the bridge commenced in 1917. After three years, the stunning Beaux Arts-style bridge was complete, connecting north and south Michigan Avenue across the Chicago River. The ceremony to celebrate the opening of the bridge featured much pomp and circumstance, with hundreds crowded onto the bridge, several marching bands, and a gala fireworks display.

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Bascule bridge over Main Branch Chicago River on Michigan Avenue (former US 14) in Chicago

On October 15, 2010, the Michigan Avenue bridge was renamed the DuSable Bridge in honor of Chicago's first permanent resident - Jean Baptiste Pointe DuSable. DuSable, the son of a French pirate and a Haitian slave, established Chicago's first trading post in 1779. His trading post was located near where the NE bridgehouse is today.

The Michigan Avenue Bridge (officially DuSable Bridge) is a bascule bridge that carries Michigan Avenue across the main stem of the Chicago River in downtown Chicago, Illinois, United States. The bridge was proposed in the early 20th century as part of a plan to link Chicago's south side and north side parks with a grand boulevard. Construction of the bridge started in 1918, it opened to traffic in 1920, and decorative work was completed in 1928. The bridge provides passage for vehicles and pedestrians on two levels; it is an example of a fixed trunnion bascule bridge, which is also known as a "Chicago style bascule bridge". The bridge is included in the Michigan–Wacker Historic District and has been designated as a Chicago Landmark.