Cedar Rapids Unveils Plans to Replace Nearly 90-Year-Old Bridge

The city of Cedar Rapids is making plans to replace a bridge that has carried cars across the Cedar River for nearly 90 years. The public got its first chance to see those plans this week.

Replacing The 8th Avenue Bridge

The city of Cedar Rapids is preparing to replace the 8th Avenue bridge that has stood for nearly 90 years, according to CBS2. The newly proposed bridge would stand some 15 feet higher to better work with the city's flood control system. Members of the community got a chance to see details of the project on Wednesday, which is expected to begin next year.

What Will The New Bridge Look Like?

Rob Davis, the city of Cedar Rapids flood control system manager, told CBS2 that the new bridge sits up higher so "we’ll be able to go over the top of the flood control system walls. And then when we do that, that will allow for transportation element during a flood." The new bridge will be a cable-stayed bridge with four lanes for traffic, and pedestrian lanes on both sides.

City of Cedar Rapids, Iowa Government

How Much Will The Project Cost?

CBS2 reports that the price tag for the new 8th Avenue bridge will be $123 million, including the work on the bridge and work on the floodwall. $62.4 million will come from grants from the U.S. Department of Transportation and another $1 million from a state grant. The rest of the cost will be covered by local flood mitigation funds and bonds.

The bridge will remain closed for the duration of the project.

Get our free mobile app