A new bridge on the way to the Mississippi River

RAPIDS CITY, Ill. (KWQC) – Interstate 80 will soon be getting a new bridge over the Mississippi River.

Officials have been gathering feedback for the past few years and held an online question-and-answer session for the public on Tuesday.

The bridge, which has carried I-80 travelers across the Mississippi between Rapids City and LeClair for more than 50 years, is in need of an upgrade.

That project started in 2020, and on Tuesday we learned more about those plans.

There is currently one section that carries traffic to both Iowa and Illinois, but the plan is to split it into two, one for those bound for Illinois and one for those bound for Iowa.

And in response to overwhelming public support, officials announced plans to create a separate multi-use path for cyclists and pedestrians who want to cross the river.

Ramps and interchanges on each side of the river will also be upgraded, including a bypass from Illinois Route 84 to eastbound I-80 on the Illinois side.

But how long will it take for this plan to be implemented?

On Tuesday, officials offered to update their schedule.

A final report with all feedback submitted and the first phase will be completed early next year.

Then the second phase, which includes final design and land acquisition, will last two years, leading to the third phase.

The third phase will be construction that will begin in 2028 and last at least 4 years.

Due to this construction, some properties may suffer, which was the main topic of today’s discussion.

The property owner who lives closest to the bridge on the Illinois side told TV6 before the meeting that he was concerned about losing his home to eminent domain.

But afterward, he said he was happy with the plans officials had for the Illinois side and it didn’t appear to affect his ownership.

However, he said officials have said they can’t justify installing noise barriers to reduce traffic noise on the bridge, but overall he’s happy with the plans as they stand now.

An open house will be held Wednesday at LeClair City Hall from 1 to 3 p.m. for people who need more information.

Officials will continue to receive feedback from the public until November 13.

You can submit your ideas and feedback by visiting their page website where you can also learn more about the project.