City of Cedar Rapids’ McCloud Run Bridge Replacement

Background

Hired by the City of Cedar Rapids to remove and replace an existing steel string/multi-beam girder bridge with a cast-in-place concrete deck which was originally constructed in the early 1900’s, Foth constructed a new continue concrete slab bridge over McCloud Run, widened the roadway, reconstructed railroad approaches, and added pedestrian accommodations. The new bridge allows two-way traffic and provides the desired turning movements for tractor trailers.

Approach

Several special concerns had to be considered during the design process. First, being constructed over a cold water trout stream, precautions and coordination with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and Army Corps of Engineers were required. Secondly, the project was in close proximity to the Chicago Central Pacific railroad crossing, which required extensive coordination and licensing. Project responsibilities included completing final design and project bidding documents for the Iowa Department of Transportation, a construction staging plan which provided schedule and budget adherence as well as access to surrounding businesses; construction and maintenance of a temporary Cedar Valley bike trail detour; easement plats for property acquisition, and coordination with multiple overhead and underground private utilities.

Results

In addition more convenient access to local businesses, bicyclists and pedestrians using the Cedar River Trail will now have easier, safer access to adjacent parking lots and trail entry points.