The Iowa and Illinois departments of transportation have recommended a $237 million replacement for the Centennial Bridge, which carries U.S. 67 traffic across the Mississippi River between Davenport, Iowa, and Rock Island, Ill.
The preferred alternative, identified following public input and further evaluation, would place a new bridge immediately west of the existing structure. The recommendation is part of the U.S. 67 Centennial Bridge Corridor Study, which is evaluating long-term transportation improvements between Fifth Street in Davenport and Seventh Avenue in Rock Island.
The proposed replacement would provide a long-term river crossing while reducing impacts on nearby properties and requiring less land acquisition than another alternative under consideration, according to the Iowa DOT. The estimated construction cost is approximately $237 million, compared with $295 million for the other option.
The E2 alternative would maintain the existing bridge's general crossing location and connect to the roadway network at approximately the same points. The competing E7 alternative would establish a new crossing farther west, connecting 11th Street in Rock Island with Marquette Street in Davenport.
Both alternatives would allow the existing bridge to remain open during construction. The current structure would be demolished after the replacement is completed, according to project information presented at an Oct. 21 public meeting in Rock Island.
Wider Shoulders, Multi-Use Path
The new bridge would include two travel lanes in each direction, with lanes remaining 11 ft. wide. Plans also call for 8-ft. shoulders on both sides and a 4-ft. striped median in place of the existing bridge's raised median.
The proposed shoulders would provide additional space for disabled vehicles and emergency response activities. The wider roadway also would address safety concerns associated with the existing bridge's limited width.
Pedestrian and bicycle accommodations would improve under the proposed alternative. The new bridge would include a multi-use path at least 12 ft. wide, replacing the existing 4-ft.-wide path. The design goal is to provide accommodations consistent with those on the Interstate 74 bridge and the Interstate 80 Mississippi River crossing.
The final bridge type, appearance, roadway details and construction plans have not been determined. Project officials are continuing to evaluate potential designs and gather public input.
Existing Bridge Approaching End of Service Life
Opened in 1940, the Centennial Bridge is approximately 85 years old and requires regular inspections, maintenance and repairs. Although recent work has improved its condition, transportation officials have concluded that rehabilitation would not provide the long-term solution needed for the corridor.
The existing bridge's arches limit opportunities to widen the structure, add shoulders and expand pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Continued rehabilitation also would require recurring work that can disrupt traffic.
The two states are committed to maintaining the existing bridge until its replacement is ready to carry traffic. Officials have estimated that maintenance and repairs could cost approximately $2 million annually, depending on inspection findings and required work.
The project also must address historic preservation and environmental considerations. The existing bridge is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Potential impacts involving historic buildings, courthouse monuments, railroad properties and nearby parking areas remain under review.
The corridor study is in Phase I, which includes evaluating alternatives, assessing environmental impacts and collecting public feedback. The study is expected to conclude in summer 2027, according to the Iowa DOT.
Construction is not expected to begin until after the new Interstate 80 Mississippi River bridge project is completed. The replacement could be completed around 2036, although the schedule remains subject to further planning and approvals.
For more information, visit centennialbridge.com.
