Bridge Work Will Impact Downtown Waterloo Traffic

Work to repair the pedestrian walkway canopy on the 4th Street bridge will impact the flow of traffic in downtown Waterloo all summer long.

The bridge, a landmark structure in the city, will be closed to traffic on Friday and Saturday (June 2-3, 2017). According to city officials, the span across the Cedar River will be blocked off mainly during daylight hours to accommodate the necessary construction equipment and workers.

City leaders want to minimize the impact the project will have on local businesses and those driving through downtown. Mayor Quentin Hart is working with city staff, downtown business leaders, engineers and contractors to accommodate as much vehicular traffic as possible while keeping the project on pace for completion. Hart is asking drivers and businesses to be patient during the process.

According to information provided by city officials, the 4th Street bridge will reopen at 7 o'clock each night -- and on some weekends -- through June 18. Starting June 19, the construction contractor plans to work six days each week.

Motorists will be able to use the bridge during the "My Waterloo Days" celebration (June 9-11) and Iowa Irish Fest (Aug. 4-6), city officials said.

Weather permitting, the 4th Street bridge is expected to reopen for vehicular traffic at the end of September. The pedestrian walkway under the canopy should be open again by the end of October.