Last time we took the architectural tour, I had been fascinated by the varying styles of bridge-tenders' houses. In years past traffic on the Chicago River was heavy enough that the moveable bascule bridges had to be staffed 24-hours. At present, most of the heavy traffic has been diverted to the Calumet harbor and the bridges are raised infrequently. The houses are no longer occupied and some are deteriorating. On this trip, I decided to take as many pictures as I could of the various structures. This is just a sampling of the 70 Chicago bridgehouses.
At one time there was interest in integrating the bridgehouses into the revitalization of the Chicago River, but the most recent reference I can find to this movement was in 2021. I don't know its current status, but it seems like a great opportunity.
The North Clark Street Bridge features a mansard roof.
The
house at the
Chicago Avenue Bridge was the most derelict of the ones we saw. The bridge
itself has been replaced and is not the historic bascule
bridge that was at this site. 
The Monroe Street Bridgehouse has a light on. I wonder if it is occupied
This bridge has some unique features including different designs for the west (this picture) and east bridgehouses. The bridgehouses were rebuilt in 2008, which explains why this one is so spiffy compared to some of the others.
The West Adams Street Bridge has another mansard roof. How 'bout those urns?
The
Deco
North Lake Shore Drive Bridge.
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