US News
Chicago bridge gets stuck open for hours amid extreme heat
Thermal expansion prevented the DuSable Lake Shore Drive bridge leaves from closing after a scheduled boat lift.
The short version
- The DuSable Lake Shore Drive bridge in downtown Chicago remained stuck in a raised position for over four hours on Wednesday.
- City transportation officials stated that high temperatures caused the bridge's metal components to expand, preventing its leaves from closing properly.
- Fire department personnel and municipal crews cooled the structure, allowing the roadway to reopen before 2:30 p.m.
Key facts
- The DuSable Lake Shore Drive bridge became stuck in an upright position around 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday following a scheduled opening for a passing boat.[ABC News · Associated Press]
- A spokesperson for the Chicago Department of Transportation stated that extreme heat caused the bridge components to expand, which prevented the leaves from closing.[ABC News · Associated Press]
- Municipal crews and the Chicago Fire Department cooled the structure, enabling it to lower and reopen shortly before 2:30 p.m.[ABC News · Associated Press]
- The closure caused downtown traffic delays during an ongoing National Weather Service dangerous heat warning.[ABC News · Associated Press]
Sources
- Chicago River bridge gets stuck after lifting for boat to passAssociated Press
- Chicago River bridge gets stuck after lifting for boat to passABC News - US News