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Council OKs $2.05M FY2025 bridge maintenance plan for Third Avenue and J Street bridges
Summary
Council approved plans, specifications and an estimated $2.05 million cost for two bridge maintenance projects—Third Avenue over the Cedar River and J Street SW over Prairie Creek—with staged closures and detours to limit downtown impacts.
The Cedar Rapids City Council adopted plans, specifications and an estimated $2,050,000 cost opinion for the FY2025 bridge maintenance project, covering repairs at the Third Avenue bridge over the Cedar River and J Street Southwest over Prairie Creek.
Ken DeKeyser of Public Works outlined project scope and scheduling: deck and substructure repairs, guardrail and signage work, concrete railing and stair repairs on Third Avenue, and a two‑stage approach allowing work to continue into the next year if needed. “Each stage of J Street and Third Avenue are allowed 50 working days,” DeKeyser said, noting an April 16 bid opening, J Street work starting May 19, and a proposed late July start for Third Avenue with completion of major phases by July 1, 2026 if required. Pedestrian routes across Maze Island will be maintained and courthouse and jail driveways will remain open.
The staff recommendation emphasized coordination with downtown stakeholders, Linn County courthouse staff, flood control and event schedules to minimize disruption. Detour routes were mapped for the east and west halves of Third Avenue; staff said they will avoid closing Second and Third Avenue bridges simultaneously and will reschedule with contractors if Second Avenue reopening is delayed.
A public hearing was held with no oral comments. Council adopted the resolution to proceed with the project by voice vote.
