Chicago River Shut to Float a Giant Bridge Leaf for Repairs
Published Date: 9/23/2026
Rule
Summary
On September 26, 2026, the Coast Guard will set up a moving safety zone on the South Branch of the Chicago River to safely float up a bridge leaf for repairs. Boats can’t enter or anchor in this zone without permission from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., with backup dates in early October if the weather is bad. This affects anyone boating in the area, so plan ahead to avoid delays and keep things safe!
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary no‑boat safety zone on Chicago River
You cannot enter, transit, moor, lay up, or anchor in a moving safety zone on the South Branch of the Chicago River between South Damen Avenue (Mile Marker 321) and the Lake Street Bridge (Mile Marker 325.5) on September 26, 2026 from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (with alternate dates of September 27, October 3, and October 4, 2026, same hours). The zone creates a 500-foot buffer ahead of and behind the vessel carrying the bridge leaf, and you must have authorization from the Captain of the Port Lake Michigan or an on-scene representative to be inside the zone and obey any directions given.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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