New McClugage Bridge set for partial opening

PEORIA – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that the new eastbound McClugage Bridge, which carries U.S. 150 over the Illinois River between Peoria and East Peoria, will partially open Thursday, Dec. 19. The traffic switch will take place overnight to minimize impacts on the public.

“The McClugage Bridge is not just a local landmark, but an asset that safely and reliably connects the state’s important, vital areas,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “We are proud to reach this milestone, knowing we are almost at the finish line. We appreciate your continued patience and understanding as we work to deliver this project.”

The bridge initially will have two lanes open. One lane from War Memorial Drive (U.S. 150) and one lane from Adams Street (Illinois 29) also will open. The multiuse path will remain closed.

“We are extremely happy that the day has finally come for motorists to begin using the new McClugage Bridge,” said Kensil Garnett, IDOT Region 3 engineer. “Although the bridge is open, there is still a tremendous amount of work to complete. I look forward to the day the project is complete so motorists and pedestrians alike can utilize the new bridge.”

Northbound traffic on Adams Street will access the bridge via the new ramp and no longer be required to make a left turn at the signal. Southbound Adams Street access to the bridge will not change. Eastbound U.S. 150 will remain one lane on the approach to the new bridge.

Items still needing to be completed include arch painting and electrical work as well as continued construction on both sides of the river.

The remaining work in Peoria primarily consists of building the remainder of the bridge over Adams Street. In East Peoria, there is still more than one full lane of road to finish constructing. Along with the demolition of the old span and construction of the paved multiuse path on both sides of the river, construction will begin as soon as possible.

The public is reminded that the area of the McClugage Bridge is still an active work zone. Please slow down and allow extra time for trips through this area. Drivers in any work zone are urged to pay close attention to flaggers and signs, obey the posted speed limits and be on the alert for workers and equipment.

For the most current traffic pattern changes and project information, please visit IDOT’s project website. In addition, site visitors can subscribe to receive construction updates and traffic alerts throughout project construction.