How many people are needed to operate the bridges?
In addition to the bridge tender, a number of people are required to ensure pedestrians and cars are clear of the bridge during a lift. According to the Bridge Operations office, bridges at North Lake Shore Drive, North Michigan Avenue, North La Salle, North Wells, West Lake, West Washington, and West Monroe require multiple operators. A typical river trip from West Van Buren to North Lake Shore Drive, requiring bridge lifts, uses a total of thirteen bridge tenders.