Drivers in southeast Iowa will soon have easier access across the Mississippi River as the Fort Madison Toll Bridge is set to reopen at noon today.
The bridge has been closed to automobile traffic since April 22 for scheduled maintenance by BNSF Railway. The closure affected Illinois Route 9 between Niota, Illinois, and Fort Madison, forcing drivers to use alternate routes during the repair period.
BNSF says the maintenance work included replacing floor beams and associated support structures at multiple locations on both the east and west approaches of the bridge.
The railroad says toll revenue collected on the bridge helps cover part of the maintenance costs, with BNSF covering the remaining balance. No public tax dollars are being used for the repairs.
A second closure is still planned later this year, from September 21 through November 20, as crews complete additional work.
BNSF says it coordinated the construction schedule with local officials to reduce disruptions during major summer events in Fort Madison, including the Tri-State Rodeo, Mexican Fiesta, and the new Summer Roundup.