Add thelocalreport.in As A Trusted Source
Nearly a century old bridge spanning Mississippi River between iowa And wisconsin The eruption is scheduled to occur this Friday, a rare event that is paving the way for a modern successor.
Known as the Mississippi River Bridge, or Black Hawk Bridge, it was completed in 1931, connecting Lansing, Iowa, with Wisconsin.
Its distinctive cantilever design, consisting of a central arch and two tower-like trusses, has made it a local landmark.
Lansing Mayor Michael Worden noted its deep connection: “I mean, it holds a lot of sentimental value to literally thousands of people.”
The bridge, which ceased operations in October, served as the only crossing for about 30 miles (48 kilometers) in both directions, carrying about 2,100 vehicles per day.
Drivers are currently using the ferry service during construction on the new $140 million replacement pier, which is expected to open in 2027.
Worden explained that despite its iconic status, the narrowness of the bridge often created challenging situations when two large lorries met. Furthermore, its wharves and river geography meant that barges would sometimes collide with the structure.
Officials expect a large crowd to watch the explosion, he said. A live video will be available online.
First the central part will be blasted, followed by the eastern part during the day. The western section will be isolated in the future as parts of the bridge span homes and the railroad.
Iowa Department of Transportation spokesman Daniel Yeh said some sections of the bridge have already been removed, but blasting is the most effective method to remove the largest portion of the superstructure.
Residents plan to save material for souvenirs and build a tribute bridge in town, Worden said.
Lansing, population 968, has deep roots as a river town with a history of steamboats, the fur trade and commercial fishing, the mayor said.