Red Covered Bridge repairs underway

$1.25 million project will restore historic structure after 2023 hit

Oct 26, 2026

PRINCETON – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that a project is underway to repair the Red Covered Bridge north of Princeton in Bureau County. The structure has been closed since 2023 when it suffered extensive damage after being hit by a truck.

The $1.25 million repair project will be done in two phases. This season’s work will allow the bridge to be open to local traffic and will include:

Replacement of the roof and roof cross bracing
Replacement of damaged roof cross bracing rods, floor beams and siding.
Replacing existing signs that warn drivers of the height restriction with new, high-visibility versions. Selected signs will be equipped with flashing beacons to attract additional attention.

The bridge will briefly close again in 2027 to finish the project, which will include:

Applying a fire-resistant coating on the interior of the structure and painting the exterior.
Making repairs and upgrades to the pump house.
Replacement of all the existing lighting and wiring.
Upgrading fire suppression piping and security cameras.
Installation of a vehicle height detection system in advance of the bridge. This system would activate flashing lights to warn truck drivers before approaching the 10-foot, 11-inch-tall bridge. Although Dover Township manages the road, IDOT will maintain the bridge warning signs and the over-height vehicle detection system.

All work is anticipated to be completed by June 2027.

Built in 1863, the Red Covered Bridge has survived several threats, including arson, erosion and high winds. It also has endured several strikes by large trucks prior to the most recent strike. The bridge also has the distinction as the only state-owned covered bridge still open to traffic, accommodating an average of 275 vehicles daily when it was open.

Like many other covered bridges owned by the state, the Red Covered Bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and protected under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. The distinction means any renovations are repairs are subject to strict preservation standards and additional review processes.

Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area and be prepared for slow and stopped traffic. 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.

Over the next six years, IDOT is planning to improve 7,107 lane miles of highway and 8.4 million square feet of bridge deck as part of Rebuild Illinois, which is investing $33.2 billion into all modes of transportation. Accomplishments through Year Seven of Rebuild Illinois include $25.6 billion of improvements statewide to 24,498 lane miles of highway, 959 bridges and 1,475 additional safety improvements.

For IDOT District 3 updates on X, follow us at @IDOTDistrict3. View area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map at www.GettingAroundIllinois.com.