Comments sought on bridge replacement on Highway 78

The Iowa Department of Transportation is requesting public comments for the proposed replacement of the state Highway 78 bridge over the Dakota, Minnesota and Eastern Railroad, about 2.5 miles west of the city of Richland in Keokuk County, and on the proposed detour route.

The project will replace the existing 292-foot by 26-foot continuous I-beam bridge with a 467-foot by 40-foot continuous welded girder bridge.

Construction is expected to occur during the 2022 construction season.

During construction through traffic would be detoured using County Road V-63, County Road H-17 and state Highway 1.

It is anticipated the detour will be in place for the majority of the construction. Local traffic will have access to Highway 78 during the planned closure.

For general information regarding the proposed improvements please view the information online at IowaDOT.gov/pim or contact Hector Torres-Cacho, transportation planner, at 641-472-4171 or 800-766-4368 or via email: hector.torres-cacho@iowadot.us.