Chicago Construction News staff writer

Construction has started on Interstate 270 to replace the Chain of Rocks Bridge over the Mississippi River with twin bridges to help improve freight transportation.

“This isn’t just an investment for the Metro East region — it’s an investment for our entire nation. This major freight corridor connects our ports and railways — essential to maintaining a steady supply chain for Illinoisans, Missourians and all Americans alike,” Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said at an event launching the project.

Built in 1966, the existing bridge over the river is two lanes in each direction with narrow, one-foot shoulders that pose safety concerns for vehicle breakdowns and first responders. The bridge accommodates 51,000 vehicles a day, about 20% of which are trucks, and the structure requires frequent maintenance and repairs due to its age.

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