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Federal Funding Approved for Iowa City Bridge Project
Over $64 million in federal aid will help replace 67 bridges and culverts in poor condition across the state.
Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:30pm
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Federal funding will help replace an aging Iowa City bridge, part of a broader effort to modernize the state's transportation infrastructure.Iowa City TodayThe U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded the State of Iowa over $64 million in federal aid to help replace 67 bridges and culverts in poor condition, including the Benton Street bridge over Ralston Creek in Iowa City. The bridge replacement project is estimated to cost $3,790,000, with the federal grant totaling $2,392,000 to help pay for a new quad-cell culvert. Work is scheduled to begin in 2035.
Why it matters
The Benton Street bridge is an important connection in Iowa City, and its poor condition has raised concerns about public safety and the need for infrastructure investment. This federal funding will help address aging bridges and culverts across the state, improving transportation and supporting economic development.
The details
The National Bridge Inventory shows the Benton Street bridge was built in 1935 and hasn't had any improvements since 1982. It is currently listed in 'poor' condition. The $3,790,000 bridge replacement project will be funded in part by the $2,392,000 federal grant, with the remainder coming from state and local sources.
- The federal funding was announced on Friday, April 11, 2026.
- Work on the Benton Street bridge project is scheduled to begin in 2035.
The players
Chuck Grassley
A U.S. Senator from Iowa who announced the federal funding in a news release.
U.S. Department of Transportation
The federal agency that is awarding over $64 million in aid to the State of Iowa for bridge and culvert replacements.
What they’re saying
“This federal funding will help address aging bridges and culverts across the state, improving transportation and supporting economic development.”
— Chuck Grassley, U.S. Senator
What’s next
The Iowa Department of Transportation will begin the design and planning process for the Benton Street bridge replacement project, with construction scheduled to start in 2035.
The takeaway
This federal investment in Iowa's aging infrastructure will help improve public safety, support economic growth, and ensure the state's transportation network can meet the needs of residents and businesses for years to come.
