New Division Street bridge open ahead of schedule

A new interim bridge over the Chicago River at Division Street opened to traffic Tuesday, roughly two weeks ahead of schedule, transportation officials announced.

It replaces an original bridge built in 1903 that was demolished this summer because of its deteriorated condition, the Chicago Department of Transportation said.

“The historic bridge had been in service for more than a century as a key transportation link across Goose Island for cars, trains, bikes and pedestrians,” CDOT Commissioner Rebekah Scheinfeld said in a release.

The interim bridge will serve as a replacement until a permanent moveable bridge can be built, officials said.