The primary goal of the new line was to serve as a bypass of Chicago, connecting the northern lines radiating out of Chicago.
By late 1891, the line would be acquired by the newly formed Elgin, Joliet & Eastern. The EJ&E acquired several lines, effectively creating a beltway around Chicago.
This line served as the northernmost portion. The EJ&E created a three-quarters loop around Chicago, with several branches.
The EJ&E continued to thrive into the 21st century. However, in 2013, Canadian National Railway acquired the EJ&E as part of their Wisconsin Central Subsidiary.
The portion of the line between Leithton and Waukegan is known as the Waukegan Subdivision.
07/17/21
Located near the intersection of Commonwealth Avenue and Broadway in Waukegan, this girder bridge crosses Commonwealth Avenue.
Built in 1905, the bridge features a pair of through girder spans, set onto concrete and steel substructures.
This type of bridge was commonly used in the early 1900s, as it was cheap and durable.
Commonwealth Avenue currently dead ends immediately under this bridge. A parking lot has taken over the former street.
Overall, the bridge appears to be in fair to good condition.
The author has ranked this bridge as being locally significant, due to the common design.
The photo above is an overview.