U.S. Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks formally announced Friday that she has secured $6 million in federal funding to assist the City of Burlington, Iowa, in replacing the long-closed Cascade Bridge. The announcement was made during a press conference at Burlington City Hall, joined by City Manager Chad Bird and Deputy City Manager Nick MacGregor.
The Cascade Bridge, located on South Main Street over the Cascade Ravine, was originally constructed in 1896. Designed to accommodate streetcars, pedestrians, and a trolley system, the structure was later recognized for its historical significance and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.
Safety restrictions led to the bridge’s gradual closure. After a four-ton vehicle weight limit was implemented, the bridge was closed to vehicular traffic in September 2008. It was subsequently closed to pedestrians in April 2019.
City officials also detailed additional project funding. Beyond the $6 million federal allocation, $1.07 million has been obtained through the National Scenic Byways Program to support planning and design work. An additional $1 million has been secured from the Iowa Department of Transportation to assist with construction costs.
The total estimated cost of the bridge replacement project is now projected at $10.5 million.
