(Left) On a barge anchored on the south bank of the Chicago River, a welder for Walsh Construction works on a crane being used to repair the bascule bridge at Wells Street. (Click on images to view larger versions.)

The north end will be replaced between April 26 and May 5. During those times, some Brown Line trains will continue into the Loop by way of the State Street subway. The CTA will also provide bus shuttles.

The bridge sections are being assembled off-site and floated up the river on barges. According to 42nd Ward Alderman Brendan Reilly, the city is trying to preserve the 1920s style of the bridge as major structural elements are replaced.

Except for CTA rail service, the bridge has been closed to traffic since November 5, 2012. It should re-open by November 2013.

(Right) A CTA Brown Line train crosses the Wells Street Bridge over the Chicago River in the late afternoon on Wednesday.

 More info: CTA Wells Street Bridge Reconstruction