Next McClugage demolition set April 9

PEORIA – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that roads near the McClugage Bridge in Peoria and East Peoria will close at approximately 9:30 a.m. April 9.

The closures are necessary for the ongoing demolition of the old eastbound bridge, which carries U.S. 150 over the Illinois River, and are expected to last about an hour. Traffic will be routed off U.S. 150 at interchange ramps and will be continuously moving. No stopping on U.S. 150 will be allowed. Adams Street (Illinois 29) will remain open in both directions.

This will be the second of seven similar events to remove components of the old structure. The explosives will be detonated once the roads are closed, the security perimeter is deemed safe and the contractor has performed their final safety checks. The anticipated blast is scheduled to occur between 9:30 a.m. and 10 a.m.

During each of these bridge demolition events, the following will be closed to all traffic:

Anyone wishing to watch the demolitions in person is reminded that a security perimeter around the blast area will be in effect on land and in the water. Pedestrians are also asked to be mindful of venturing onto private property without the owner’s permission.

Due to rising levels of the Illinois River, the original schedule of blast events has been adjusted. Please see the revised demolition schedule included with this press release.

Drones will be used by the demolition contractor to verify a safe and successful detonation of the explosives. Personal drones will be required to stay at least 1,000 feet north of the bridge and fly at least 300 feet above the ground. Any incursions into this area may cause postponement of the blast and the owner liable for delays to the contractor.

Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. To avoid the work area, when feasible, use of alternate routes should be considered. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.

Visit McClugageBridge.com to learn more about this project. For more information on IDOT projects, click here. For IDOT District 4 updates, follow us on Twitter at @IDOTDistrict4 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com and www.gettingaroundpeoria.com.

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