McClugage Bridge Project Live Cam

The McClugage Bridge, originally known as the Peoria Bypass Bridge, has an interesting history in Peoria, Illinois. Here are some key points:

Construction: The bridge was constructed as part of the Illinois River Bridge Project, which aimed to improve transportation and alleviate traffic congestion in the Peoria area. Construction began in 1949 and was completed in 1958.

Named after Joseph W. McClugage: The bridge was named after Joseph W. McClugage, an influential Peoria businessman and civic leader. McClugage played a significant role in advocating for the bridge's construction.

Engineering and Design: The McClugage Bridge was designed by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and built by the American Bridge Company. The bridge's design is a continuous truss structure with a total length of approximately 1.3 miles (2.1 kilometers). It has two main spans that cross the Illinois River and several smaller approach spans.

Replacement of Old McClugage Bridge: The original McClugage Bridge was a two-lane structure, and with the increasing traffic demands, a new four-lane bridge was constructed parallel to the original one. The old bridge was eventually demolished, and the new bridge was opened for traffic in November 2003.

Bob Michel's Name: In 2013, the bridge was officially renamed the Bob Michel Bridge in honor of Robert H. Michel, a Peoria native and respected U.S. Congressman who served in the House of Representatives for 38 years.

The McClugage Bridge has become an iconic landmark in the Peoria area, serving as a vital transportation link and contributing to the region's economic development and connectivity.

Historical Facts

• Construction Era: The construction of the McClugage Bridge took place during the mid-20th century, with work commencing in 1949 and concluding in 1958.
• Engineering Design: The bridge was designed by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and engineered by the American Bridge Company. Its design is that of a continuous truss structure, which provides stability and strength.
• Importance for Transportation: The McClugage Bridge played a crucial role in improving transportation in the Peoria area. Prior to its construction, traffic had to pass through downtown Peoria, causing congestion and delays. The bridge provided an alternative route, reducing traffic congestion and facilitating smoother movement across the Illinois River.
• Joseph W. McClugage: The bridge was named after Joseph W. McClugage, a prominent Peoria businessman and civic leader. McClugage played a pivotal role in advocating for the construction of the bridge and promoting its significance for the community.
• Original Two-Lane Bridge: The McClugage Bridge initially consisted of two lanes, one in each direction. Over time, as traffic volume increased, it became apparent that a wider bridge was necessary to accommodate the growing transportation needs.
• Replacement and Expansion: In order to address the traffic demands, a new four-lane bridge was constructed adjacent to the original McClugage Bridge. This parallel structure was completed in November 2003. Subsequently, the old bridge was demolished, and the new bridge became the primary crossing over the Illinois River.
• Renaming as the Bob Michel Bridge: In 2013, the McClugage Bridge was renamed the Bob Michel Bridge in honor of Robert H. Michel. Michel was a Peoria native and a respected U.S. Congressman who served for several decades in the House of Representatives.

These historical facts highlight the construction, significance, and subsequent expansion of the McClugage Bridge, now known as the Bob Michel Bridge, as an integral part of Peoria's transportation infrastructure.