The route was selected to go through portions of South Chicago as well as Cicero. Five railroads originally financed the project, although nine additional owners would join in 1910.
A subsidiary of the Chicago & Western Indiana Railway, the railroad started near the Calumet River mouth at Lake Michigan, and proceeded westwards between 91st and 94th Streets until Auburn Park.
From Auburn Park, the route followed the C&WI for a short distance, before heading west along 75th Street. Near Cicero Avenue in Hayford, the main line turned north along Cicero Avenue, until it reached the Milwaukee Road at Cragin.
Significant yards were located at Hayford, including the famed Clearing Yard near Midway Airport.
The railroad formed an approximate perimeter for major yards in Chicago. In 1916, the railroad had access to almost ten major yards.
Six major railroads currently buy into the Belt Railway of Chicago, which still serves much of the original trackage.
06/26/21
Located in the West Garfield Park neighborhood of Chicago, this through girder span crosses West Monroe Street near the intersection of W. Monroe Street and S. Kenton Avenue.
Built 1903, the bridge features a simple design, including a single through girder span, set onto concrete and stone abutments. Although the abutments have recieved alterations, it is not believed that the superstructure has recieved any alterations.
The bridge was built for two tracks, which it still serves.
Overall, the bridge appears to be in fair to good condition, with minimal significant deterioration noted.
The author has ranked the bridge as being locally significant, due to the common design.
The photo above is an overview.