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Burlington Prepares to Address Future of Historic Cascade Bridge
City engineer says extensive behind-the-scenes work underway to determine next steps for aging structure.
Jan. 28, 2026 at 5:47pm
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Burlington City Engineer Jesse Howe revealed that the city has been working extensively with state preservation and transportation officials to develop plans for the future of the historic Cascade Bridge, which has been closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic for over a decade due to its deteriorating condition.
Why it matters
The Cascade Bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which means any actions taken to address its future must carefully balance public safety and preservation concerns. The city's collaboration with state agencies is crucial to navigating this complex process.
The details
Howe said the bridge's superstructure must be replaced, and the city is required by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to carry out a mitigation plan that documents the bridge's historical significance before any work can begin. The city is working with SHPO and the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) to develop these plans, with the goal of potentially putting the project out to bid in 2027.
- The Cascade Bridge was first closed to vehicle traffic over a decade ago.
- The bridge was later closed to pedestrians as well.
- During a Burlington City Council work session on Monday, January 28, 2026, Howe provided an update on the city's plans.
- The mitigation plan required by SHPO must be completed before the project can move forward.
- Bids for the bridge replacement project could go out in 2027.
The players
Jesse Howe
The Burlington City Engineer, who is leading the city's efforts to address the future of the Cascade Bridge.
State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)
The state agency that is working with the city of Burlington to develop a mitigation plan for the historic Cascade Bridge.
Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT)
The state transportation agency that is collaborating with the city and SHPO on plans for the Cascade Bridge.
What they’re saying
“Extensive preparation has been taking place behind the scenes as the city works toward addressing the future of Cascade Bridge.”
— Jesse Howe, Burlington City Engineer
What’s next
The city must complete the SHPO-required mitigation plan that documents the historical significance of the Cascade Bridge before the project can move forward. Bids for the bridge replacement could then go out in 2027.
The takeaway
The Cascade Bridge's historic designation adds complexity to the city's efforts to address the aging structure, but the collaborative approach with state preservation and transportation agencies demonstrates Burlington's commitment to finding a solution that balances public safety and historic preservation.
