PLAN AHEAD: Ramp Closure
Continues at McClugage
The Illinois Department of Transportation reminds motorists that the ramp from northbound Adams Street (Illinois 29) to eastbound War Memorial Drive (US 150) remains closed to allow for its removal as part of the McClugage Bridge project.
Motorists wanting to use eastbound War Memorial from northbound Adams Street will turn left at the newly installed signal at the intersection (see map).
This traffic pattern will remain in place until the opening of the new McClugage Bridge, which is expected in Fall of 2024 with demolition of the older, existing structure going into 2025.
Rising from the River
Signature arch emerges as bridge reaches final stretch of construction
McClugage Bridge history was made in Peoria at the close of 2023, as crews successfully floated and lifted a signature 7-million pound arch onto the new eastbound structure, reaching a major milestone for the project and signaling the final stretch of construction for the Illinois River crossing.
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What's next in 2024?
With the arch successfully positioned, crews are back to work this spring. Some bridge work remains for the eastbound McClugage, including setting the remaining beams, perfecting the bridge deck, parapets, and barrier wall, and ensuring the seamless reconstruction of the bridge over IL 29. At the same time, additional project features are underway, including multi-use paths, trailhead parking lots, fresh pavement on the East Peoria side, and the installation of highway lighting on the bridge. Construction is slated to be completed by Spring 2025. The removal of the existing eastbound bridge will be the final piece of construction. The new McClugage Bridge is scheduled to open to vehicular traffic this fall.
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Did you know?
The new eastbound McClugage Bridge will improve the traveling experience for all who cross, addressing existing and future needs. The new structure, more than twice the width of the old bridge, will increase capacity by adding a third lane and shoulders, improve safety, reduce travel times, and ensure additional multimodal access with bike and pedestrian accommodations, resulting in a more durable bridge over time.
In addition, the new McClugage bridge will feature two new Ironworker Memorials, one at each trailhead. The memorials commemorate the three men working whose lives were lost after scaffolding gave way during a bridge repair project.
WHAT?
After more than 70 years of serving the Peoria metro area, the eastbound McClugage Bridge will be removed and replaced with a new structure to meet the region’s transportation needs. Potential alternatives for a new bridge were examined and public comments were considered in the initial phases of the project, allowing construction to begin in the Spring of 2019.
WHY?
In order to improve capacity, increase safety and reduce travel times, the new McClugage Bridge will replace the existing structure. Continuing IDOTs focus on improving multimodal capabilities and strengthening the traveling experience, the new bridge will include bicycle and pedestrian accommodations.
Did you
know?
The new eastbound McClugage Bridge will improve the traveling experience for all who cross – not only for existing needs, but future ones as well. The new structure, more than twice the width of the old bridge, will increase capacity by adding a third lane and shoulders, improve safety, reduce travel times and ensure additional multimodal access with bike and pedestrian accommodations.
