Iowa Ag Connection - Reynolds, Rauner Break Ground on I-74 Bridge Reconstruction

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Reynolds, Rauner Break Ground on I-74 Bridge Reconstruction
Iowa Ag Connection - 06/27/2017

Gov. Kim Reynolds and Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner broke ground Monday afternoon launching a three-and-a-half year construction project to build a new Interstate 74 Mississippi River Bridge. The project will improve safety and travel through the I-74 corridor.

"The Iowa and Illinois departments of transportation, along with their design partners, have come up with a plan for a safe, modern and visually spectacular structure that will replace two aging bridges," Gov. Reynolds said. "This new bridge will serve as a vital east-west link for the Midwest and help both states improve their regional and global options for moving goods."

Iowa and Illinois share jurisdiction of the I-74 corridor. The Iowa Department of Transportation is the lead agency for the bridge construction project and corresponding projects within Iowa. The Illinois Department of Transportation is a partner in the project and the lead agency for related projects within Illinois. Both agencies are working closely to coordinate construction activities with the cities of Bettendorf, Davenport, Moline and Rock Island.

"Working together, our states and communities will build a modern, state-of-the-art project that showcases the quality of our workforce and creates economic opportunity for generations to come," Gov. Rauner said. "We are building more than just a bridge, but a vital piece of the country's transportation network that will promote commerce throughout the Midwest."

Construction will begin later this summer and is expected to be complete in 2021. In addition to the bridge reconstruction, the estimated $1.2 billion project will improve travel along I-74 between 53rd Street in Davenport and Avenue of the Cities in Moline, better connecting and growing communities on both sides of the Mississippi River. A new pedestrian and bike path connecting to existing local paths is also included in the project.

For updates on the construction schedule, lane detours and road closures, or to get the most up-to-date construction news, visit the project website at I74RiverBridge.com. Follow the project on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube @I74RiverBridge.

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