Construction on historic Wacker Drive nearly done

Renovations to an historic Chicago street that winds above and below the city's downtown are almost complete.

State and city transportation officials Thursday showcased some of the $303 million in improvements to Wacker Drive. That includes wider lanes, more lighting and extra room for pedestrians. The project is to finish in December.

Sections of the roadway were built in 1926. It's an unusual street because it runs north, south, east and west and connects to major freeways.

The thoroughfare has been showcased on the big screen. The street's lower level was featured in 2008's "The Dark Knight" as Batman zipped around the city. Sections were also featured in the third "Transformers" movie.

Construction crews finished one phase of reconstruction of Wacker Drive in 2002. This second phase began in 2010.