Living to 100 is a notable achievement, and for structures — a testament to their strength and durability.
Four Chicago bridges (all of them steel) are celebrating their centennial year, as stated in an article on dnainfo.com. The four bridges that opened in 1916 are: the Jackson Boulevard Bridge (Jan. 29); Chicago & North Western Railroad Bridge (July 30); Webster Street Bridge (Aug. 3); and Lake Street Bridge (Nov. 6). This brings the total of city bridges to survive that long to 23, according to the article.
"It's pretty impressive that these marvels of engineering are still working given they've been in continuous operation," said John Russick, the Chicago History Museum's vice president for interpretation and education. "And they're well built, well maintained, and they really speak to the character of the city."
The article includes historic photos as well as an audio interview about the great engineering behind these bridges.