Replacement of the Iowa 2 bridge over Lick Creek (4.3 miles east of the junction with Iowa 81) east of Farmington, and the bridge over Sugar Creek (1.8 miles west of U.S. 218), will require closing the road to traffic over the Lick Creek bridge beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, Mar. 29, until late-June, weather permitting, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Fairfield construction office.
Once the Lick Creek bridge opens, the Sugar Creek bridge will close for construction. The bridge projects will be coordinated so the Iowa 2 bridges are not closed at the same time.
Lick Creek Project: This project involves removing the existing steel girder and floor beam bridge and replacing it with a single span beam bridge. The project will also involve raising the grade, erosion control, paving the shoulders, and installing new guardrail.
Sugar Creek Project: This project involves removing the existing steel I-beam/concrete beam bridge and replacing it with a pretensioned, prestressed concrete beam bridge. The project will also involve raising the grade, erosion control, paving the shoulders, and installing new guardrail.
Detour Route: Through traffic on Iowa 2 will be detoured using U.S. 218, Lee County Road J-40/160th Street, and Lee County Road W-46/100th Avenue. It is anticipated the detour will be in place for most of the construction season. Local traffic will have access to Iowa 2 except for the bridges crossing over Lick Creek and Sugar Creek (see map).
Additional shoulder construction and micro surfacing operations will be active along Iowa 2. Flaggers, pilot cars and signalized lights will be in place to assist motorists in getting around the work zones.
The Iowa DOT reminds motorists to drive with caution, obey the posted speed limit and other signs in the work area, and be aware that traffic fines for moving violations are at least double in work zones. As in all work zones, drivers should stay alert, allow ample space between vehicles, and wear seat belts.