Old I-74 bridge demo continues Oct. 15

Several piers from the old Interstate 74 bridge will be removed with controlled explosions, the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) announced Monday, Oct. 2.

The demo operation is scheduled to begin at 7 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 15, weather permitting, which will cause temporary river and bridge traffic closures, IDOT said in a news release.  

Viewers may watch the demolition online by accessing the project webcams at iowadot.gov/i74riverbridge.

The demolition contractor, Helm Group, will be using controlled explosives to remove the piers, which will require a temporary closure of the new I-74 bridge to vehicles and pedestrians. The river also will be temporarily closed to commercial traffic and pleasure boaters.

The main navigation channel in the river will be closed for up to 24 hours, beginning at 6 a.m. on Oct. 15. Areas outside the main navigation channel will be closed for up to 72 hours. Local law enforcement will be on-site monitoring the river during the demolition process.

The entire new I-74 bridge will be closed to traffic for about one hour on Sunday morning, Oct. 15, with a posted detour in place. Through traffic will be routed to Interstates 80 and 280. Local traffic will be directed to use the Centennial Bridge in Davenport to cross the river and then routed to either downtown Bettendorf to get to westbound I-74 or downtown Moline to get to eastbound I-74.

The bike and pedestrian path on the new bridge also will be closed for approximately 24 hours beginning Saturday night (Oct. 14) and will be closely monitored by local law enforcement.

Quad Citians have witnessed two major explosions as part of the Helm Group’s demolition work, beginning with the first blast in June. A second explosion was in August. 

Residents and visitors in the area are advised to view the Restricted Area Map. Access to this area, including Leach Park in Bettendorf, will be strictly prohibited. Sections of the riverfront path in Bettendorf will be closed. 

Access to the businesses on State Street and the Isle Casino Hotel will remain open. In addition, the parking lot adjacent to the new bridge in Bettendorf will be closed to the public.

One final blast to remove the remaining piers is expected sometime this winter, IDOT said. For further information and updates on the demolition progress, visit https://iowadot.gov/i74riverbridge/Demolition-details.