The Quad Cities is one step closer to being ready to host passenger rail service, whenever it eventually begins. Last week, a pedestrian bridge was lifted into place connecting Metro LInk's Centre Station in downtown Moline and the future train station across the tracks.
Metro Link spokeswoman Jennifer Hirsch says the bridge is the final piece of the multi-modal station that includes the Element Hotel and a passenger rail platform, at 12th Street and 4th Avenue.
"We're really excited that we now have a safe crossing for pedestrians between that multi-modal station, 4th Avenue and 5th Avenue location in downtown Moline, and then with Centre Station and access to River Drive. "
The new pedestrian bridge will open this fall.
As for the long-awaited passenger rail service between the Quad Cities and Chicago, the Illinois Department of Transportation will only say it continues to work with the various stakeholders to advance the project.
The bridge is called "Sears Crossing" in honor of David Sears, a prominent early settler of Moline - who helped lay out the city, and name it.
