Charles City to Study Traffic Impacts with Construction of Main Street Bridge

If the City of Charles City is to build a new bridge to replace the existing Main Street Bridge, similar to its current size, the cost is estimated between $13 and $15 million.

Thus, the City is considering less-expensive alternate plans that could include a bridge smaller in width. Regardless of the size, construction could close access over the Cedar River for up to two years.

During a workshop session last week, the Council discussed a study on the impacts on traffic, not just on Main Street, but also the increased use it would mean for the Brantingham Bridge. Councilman Patrick Lumley says the study is needed to know what’s ahead.

Lumley also noted the bridge is just one of multiple pricy projects that are under consideration by the City.

The City has secured $1.5 million from the Iowa DOT for a new bridge. The City’s contract engineer, Mark Crawford, said the study could open up the possibility of other funding streams.

Whatever the plan for the Main Street Bridge, Mayor Dean Andrews says one option is not an option.

The City will seek request for proposals to conduct the traffic impact study and has budgeted up to $65,000 for that assessment.