CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- You shouldn’t notice anything right away, but work has already begun to replace the Mile Long Bridge structures on the Tri-State Tollway.The Mile Long Bridge, in the Willow Springs, Countryside, Justice and Hodgins area, is 61-years old and nearing the end of its useful life, according to the Tollway Authority. Its replacement is expected to last as long as 100 years.
Tollway executive director Jose Alvarez said there will be five lanes in each direction instead of the current four.
"We’re replacing an old infrastructure that’s been there forever with two new bridges. We’re adding a lane each way and that means that you’re going to reduce congestion," he said. One reason for the expected longer life will lie underneath all the cement, in the rebar, or reinforcement bars. It’ll be stainless steel.
