Work underway on Mount Prospect pedestrian bridge

Work is underway on the long-awaited pedestrian bridge spanning Northwest Highway and the Union Pacific tracks to connect Meadows and Melas parks in Mount Prospect.

Mount Prospect Public Works Director Sean Dorsey said crews are clearing trees in preparation for work beginning around Aug. 10 to relocate utilities and bury overhead lines.

Construction of the 206-foot-long bridge also should begin in August, he said.

The project is designed to provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists to parks, schools and other destinations on both sides of Route 14.

Work will include construction of piers, ramps and staircases at the northeast corner of Melas Park and the southwest corner of Meadows Park.

Most of $10.1 million cost will be funded through grants, with the village expected to pitch in about $1.4 million.

Contractors will stage operations along the parking lane on Northwest Highway and in Meadows Park when working on the north side of the tracks. Operations will shift to the northeast corner of Melas Park during work south of the tracks. Kenilworth Avenue will have parking restricted to one side of the street to allow delivery of materials and equipment.

The Melas Park path will remain open during construction except for the northeast section. Pedestrian detour signs will be in place during the closure.

The bridge is expected to be complete by fall 2027.