The Black Hawk Bridge is now set to close for demolition in fall 2025—months earlier than originally planned—as part of a revised effort to replace the aging Mississippi River crossing between Iowa and Wisconsin. Transportation officials from both states reported that the current bridge between Lansing, Iowa, and Crawford County, Wisconsin, will close and be torn down to facilitate safe and timely completion of its replacement by 2027.
The decision follows extensive consultations between the Iowa and Wisconsin Departments of Transportation (DOT), the contractors on the project, and engineers. Authorities state that continuing construction in tandem with the existing structure posed growing safety risks—not just to river and rail traffic below, but also to motorists and workers.
The structural integrity of the Black Hawk Bridge has been in question since early 2024. When support pier movement necessitated an emergency closure of approximately two months. In May of 2025, it was again closed due to the same pier movement. Investigators concluded the nearby construction work likely contributed to the instability.
Revised Construction Plans
The new plan is needed to assist in guaranteeing the safe and timely completion of the new bridge,” the project team said in a joint update. Bringing down the current structure makes way for extensive construction operations, minimizing risks associated with building very close to the weakening span.”.
Known locally as the Black Hawk Bridge, the existing crossing is an essential component of everyday life for regional communities. It is the only direct crossing of the Mississippi River between La Crosse and Prairie du Chien—a span of almost 60 miles. Many residents cross the bridge to get to work, school, medical services, and shopping.
Since work on the new bridge began in late 2023, engineers have twice temporarily shut down the old bridge. After each shutdown, temporary stabilization work and inspections allowed traffic to return, but with growing safety concerns, both state DOTs agreed that a full closure is now unavoidable.
To assist stranded visitors and local businesses, officials are looking at short-term solutions such as restoring a water taxi service that transported individuals during past closures. In addition, highway detours—such as the U.S. 18 bridge between McGregor, Iowa, and Prairie du Chien—will remain open throughout construction.
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The ne bridge will replicate the appearance of the original
The new $140 million bridge will replicate the appearance of the original, Black Hawk Bridge. With one major addition: a solid concrete driving surface will replace the steel grating on the original. This, along with other modern engineering enhancements, will provide long-term reliability without changing the bridge’s distinctive appearance, officials say.
A formal closure date later this year will be publicized. Project updates, detours, and temporary transportation alternatives will be communicated through the project website, social media, highway message boards, local news outlets, and Iowa’s 511 system. Public outreach is ongoing, with both DOTs coordinating closely with local officials and stakeholders in advance of the 2025 closure.
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Black Hawk Bridge Set for Demolition: Project Factsheet
Project Overview
Bridge Name: Black Hawk Bridge
Location: Lansing, Iowa ↔ Crawford County, Wisconsin
Project Value: $140 million
Expected Completion: 2027
Key Decision
The existing Black Hawk Bridge will permanently close in fall 2025 to allow safe completion of its replacement. The bridge will be demolished as part of the revised construction plan.
Why the Closure is Necessary
Safety Concerns: Construction alongside the existing deteriorating structure poses risks to motorists, workers, and river/rail traffic
Structural Issues: Emergency closures in early 2024 (2 months) and May 2025 due to shifting support piers
Construction Impact: Nearby construction activity likely contributed to bridge instability
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