University of St Mary of the Lake / Mundelein Seminary

Bridge #5 Replacement

Over a century ago, Cardinal Mundelein selected the classical Early American architectural style for the construction of his new seminary in Chicago. His intent was clear: to emphasize that the priests formed at Mundelein Seminary would be deeply rooted in the Catholic faith, within a setting that reflected the American spirit.

A particularly distinctive feature of the campus is its five bridges, which encircle and connect the grounds. These elegant structures physically and symbolically unify the entire campus.

Dunnet Bay Construction has been proud to cultivate a long-standing and collaborative relationship with the University, and is deeply honored to have been entrusted with the replacement and restoration of all five bridges that span the historic campus. This significant undertaking not only reflects the University’s confidence in Dunnet Bay’s expertise but also underscores the importance of the bridges as integral components of the campus’s architectural and cultural heritage.

From the very beginning of the project, the University made it a top priority to honor the original Early American architectural style that defines the campus. This meant carefully preserving key design elements—such as the classic lines, materials, and proportions—that echo the vision of Cardinal Mundelein. At the same time, each bridge was thoughtfully upgraded to enhance structural integrity, improve safety, and ensure long-term durability. The result is a seamless blend of tradition and innovation, maintaining the historical character of the campus while meeting contemporary engineering standards.