*photo courtesy Iowa DOT
After announcing earlier this month it would remain open the rest of the summer, the Iowa and Wisconsin Departments of Transportation have released plans to begin removing the existing bridge over the Mississippi River at Lansing, Iowa.
The revised plan requires closure and demolition of the existing bridge this fall to ensure that construction of the new Iowa 9/WIS 82 bridge over the Mississippi River between Lansing, Iowa, and Crawford County, Wisconsin, can be safely constructed and be opened as planned in 2027.
The Iowa DOT says project engineers reached this decision after extensive discussions between both state DOTs, the contractor, and additional analyses. While recognizing the impact to the communities, this plan ensures safety for motorists, construction workers, rail traffic, and Mississippi River traffic.
With the new bridge being constructed alongside the existing bridge, Iowa DOT, WisDOT, and the contractor determined that future construction stages could pose a risk to the safety of the existing bridge. This fall, the existing bridge will be closed to traffic and crews will then demolish and remove the old structure.
Since construction of the new bridge began in late 2023, project engineers temporarily closed the existing bridge twice. The first in early 2024 was due to observed displacement and the bridge was then re-opened following limited stabilizing work. The second closure in May 2025 was due to sensor-detected movement and the bridge was reopened following a detailed inspection and engineering analysis.
The project team is investigating opportunities for alternative river crossings to support businesses, institutions, and individuals in Iowa and Wisconsin. This may include restoration of the water taxi service offered during previous closures or other options, and both states will maintain viable roadway detours. The nearest crossing is U.S. 18 connecting McGregor, Iowa, to Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.
The exact closure date of the existing Mississippi bridge at Lansing will be determined later in the year.
Planned closures and alternative services will be announced through the project website, the project Facebook page, local media, on variable message signs on either end of the bridge, and through 511 Iowa. The Iowa DOT and WisDOT project teams are also communicating closely with government officials and other stakeholders in the affected communities.
For more information on the construction of the new Mississippi River Bridge at Lansing as well as updates on the existing bridge status, go to iowadot.gov/lansingbridge. Individuals may also sign up to receive e-mail updates view the Facebook page www.facebook.com/LansingBridge/.
The latest traveler information is available anytime through our 511 system. Visit 511ia.org; call 511 (within Iowa) or 800-288-1047 (nationwide); stay connected with 511 on Facebook or X (find links at https://iowadot.gov/travel-tools/iowa-511/511-social-media-sites); or download the free app to your mobile device.
