Mark Peterson is a member of the team from a consulting firm, Parsons Corporation. "Alternate 5 is the companion Bridge [to the] west with the bridges being built one after another, and the removal of the existing bridge in between. It's a longer schedule and two traffic shifts because it doesn't shift the roadway as far west. We don't need all the retaining walls that we needed under alternative 3."
Tony Pakeltis, also from Parsons, says alternative five is the best option based on fewer home and business re-locations, plus reduced effects on wetlands.
He says the team will work with the Illinois and Iowa DOTs to help decide whether a lane for walkers and bikers will be built on the new, I-80 bridge.
"The departments of transportation will coordinate regarding the decision on whether the new river crossing will include a multi-use path for pedestrians and bicyclists. Typically, pedestrian and bicycle accommodations are not included along interstate facilities. This coordination is going to include meeting with the local communities to determine if they can assume maintenance responsibilities, which would be a requirement if a multi-use path is to be provided."
The local communities may include Rapids City and LeClaire plus Rock Island and Scott counties. The BiState Regional Commission will also participate in those conversations.
The team also selected alternative B for the re-configuration of the I-80, I-88 interchange. It features a three-leaf cloverleaf design with one direct, outer ramp.
To submit comments about the I-80 bridge team's preferred alternatives, click HERE.
