Hinsdale-Western Springs Pedestrian Bridge Open

HINSDALE, IL – The pedestrian bridge linking Hinsdale and Western Springs opened Wednesday.

The new bridge was built as part of the $4 billion Interstate 294 reconstruction project.

According to the Illinois Tollway, the state agency is turning over the bridge to local officials ahead of schedule.

The bridge was moved from near Ogden Avenue to the area next to 47th Street. The location was selected by Hinsdale and Western Springs after public input from residents.

The bridge connects Hinsdale's Veeck Park and Western Springs' Spring Rock Park.

The Illinois Tollway started construction on the pedestrian bridge in September 2021. The new prefabricated steel pedestrian bridge structure was originally scheduled to be moved into place in spring 2023, according to the agency's news release.

"The village board consistently looks for ways to make Western Springs more walkable and bike-friendly," Western Springs Village President Alice Gallagher said in the Illinois Tollway's news release. "This bridge is the result of collaborative planning between the village, the Western Springs Park District, the Tollway and Hinsdale."

Hinsdale Village President Tom Cauley said the village appreciated the state agency's acknowledgment of the value of the bridge to the two towns.

“The attractive new bridge, which connects parks in the two communities, will no doubt be a favorite of bike riders, walkers and joggers," Cauley said in the release.