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.
Home Stretch
Fall completion eyed for new eastbound McClugage
The light at the end of the tunnel is near as the new McClugage Bridge nears completion. Since the signature arch was hoisted in December 2023, crews have been setting beams, pouring out the remaining deck, and putting ramps in place. The finishing touches of construction include placing the bridge’s railing and barriers, along with other items like landscaping and lighting.
The third lane and shoulders on the new bridge will accommodate an increased traffic capacity on the bridge including bikers and pedestrians.
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Out with the old, in with the new
Following the completion and opening of the new eastbound bridge, the old McClugage span will be demolished over the course of approximately 10 months. Commemorative parks on each side of the river will have structural members (steel beams) from the dismantled bridge. In addition to bike and pedestrian accommodations on the bridge, a scenic overlook is planned and trailhead parking lots on both sides of the Illinois River.
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Historic Tribute
The planned parks will include three plaques to describe the history and significance of the original McClugage Bridge, The Free Bridge, and the Ironworkers’ Memorial.
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.