New I-74 Bridge To Be Closed As Old Bridge Is Exploded

Later this month, the new I-74 bridge will be closed so demolition can continue on the old I-74 bridge.

It looks like we're headed for old I-74 bridge explosion, chapter 2. According to a release from the Iowa Department of Transportation, crews will remove the remaining suspension cables and towers on the old I-74 bridge by using controlled explosives.

That will be on Sunday, August 27th and the new I-74 bridge will temporarily be closed to both pedestrian and car traffic. The demolition is set to start as early as 7:00 a.m. that morning.

Road Closure & Detours

The Iowa DOT says that the new bridge will be completely closed for one hour on Sunday morning. Through-traffic is advised to stay on I-80 and I-280. Local traffic should use Centennial Bridge. The bike and pedestrian path will be closed for about 24 hours.

Riverfront & Boat Traffic Closures

Of course, this is the second time this year that explosives have been used on the bridge. The initial demolition blast happened back in June and was also early on a Sunday morning. Just like the last time, the riverfront area in Bettendorf will be closed. Boat traffic on the river will be closed for up to 24 hours, starting at 6:00 a.m. on August 27th.

Just like the last explosion, you're not advised to go out there to watch it. I noticed that warning didn't really work back in June, but just for the record, the DOT doesn't want you to be close enough on the Bettendorf riverfront to get a good view of it.