Gov. Reynolds Issues Disaster Proclamation for Mississippi River Bridge Repair Â
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has issued a disaster proclamation for Allamakee and Clayton counties in response to the sudden structural failure of the Mississippi River bridge at Lansing.
The Iowa DOT was alerted February 25th to unexpected movement on the existing bridge that connects Iowa and Wisconsin and the bridge was closed as a result of this discovery. The DOT says, “After thoroughly inspecting the bridge, engineers determined there has been movement in two existing bridge piers near the work zone. Work is already in progress to stabilize the two impacted piers so we can reopen the bridge as quickly as possible. However, work is expected to take up to two months. The bridge will not be reopened until it is deemed safe.â€
The Governor’s proclamation is effective immediately and continues through March 30, 2024. It activates the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Emergency Repair (ER) Program which authorizes emergency relief funding to cover the costs of repair or reconstruction of federal-aid routes that have suffered severe damage as a result of sudden structural failure. Â
The nearest bridges for vehicle traffic to cross the Mississippi River are at La Crescent, Minnesota/Lacrosse, Wisconsin, or Marquette, Iowa/Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.
The DOT adds that they are working on alternative transportation options for those who rely on the bridge.
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For updates on the bridge construction and optional transportation services, please go to https://iowadot.gov/lansingbridge. Brief updates will be posted to the website and you can sign up to receive more detailed updates, as well.
You can also find more information on the Mississippi River Bridge at Lansing Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LansingBridge/.
