BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION: Leaves of Chicago’s Wells Street Bridge removed

The heavy lifting portion of the 91-year-old Wells Street Bridge in Chicago has begun. Construction crews first arrived on the scene back in November 2012, but removal of the leaf sections of the double-decked bascule span began on March 1. It marked the first of two nine-day windows where work will be done to reconstruct the historic structure. As the old leaves are removed, new ones are barged up the Chicago River and put into place.

The bridge’s railings, houses, major structural components and mechanical and electrical components also will be replaced. The trusses and steel framing will be new as well.

Tim Gregorski, editor in chief of Professional Remodeler, was on the scene while crews were dismantling the old bridge on March 2, and produced a slideshow of photographs.