The river also serves as inspiration for one of Chicago 's ubiquitous symbols : a three-branched , Y-shaped symbol ( called the municipal device ) is found on many buildings and other structures throughout Chicago ; it represents the three branches of the Chicago River .
The river also serves as inspiration for one of Chicago 's symbols : a three-branched , Y-shaped symbol ( called the municipal device ) is found on many buildings and other structures throughout Chicago ; it represents the three branches of the Chicago River .