Coast Guard Blocks Chicago River for Bridge Work Safety Zone
Published Date: 10/13/2026
Rule
Summary
On October 20, 2026, the Coast Guard will block off a part of the South Branch Chicago River to safely assemble the Lake Street Bridge. Boats can’t enter, park, or pass through this zone unless they get special permission. If the weather is bad, the work and restrictions might move to nearby days, so boaters should plan ahead and stay safe.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary river navigation closure for bridge work
If you operate a boat on the South Branch of the Chicago River, the Coast Guard will close the entire width of the river between Mile Marker 325.5 and Mile Marker 325.4 for Lake Street Bridge assembly on October 20, 2026, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Boats may not enter, transit, moor, lay-up, or anchor in that zone unless authorized by the Captain of the Port Lake Michigan or a designated on-scene representative. Inclement-weather alternate dates are October 18, 19, 21, and 22, 2026, each from 6:00 a.m. through 6:00 p.m.
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