Black Hawk Bridge at Lansing reopens again to vehicle traffic, for now.

LANSING, Iowa – After a third closure due to concerns over structural integrity, engineers have now declared the bridge safe for vehicle traffic again. The bridge will close again later this summer but that is a planned closure and water taxi service across the river will continue to help offset the inconvenience for motorists.

The bridge was closed for a third time May 17 since construction began on a new bridge directly to the north of the existing bridge. Motion sensors on the bridge have continued to detect unsafe movement in the piers at the base of the old bridge.

Engineers with the Iowa DOT now cleared the bridge for traffic use and will continue to monitor the sensors for safety.

A new bridge is being constructed alongside the existing bridge. Iowa DOT anticipates another multi-week closure of the existing bridge this summer to allow for certain construction activities on the new bridge. The department is planning to keep the bridge open at least through the July 4 weekend and will publicize any future planned closures at least one week in advance. Planned closures will be announced through the project web page, the project Facebook page, local media, on variable message signs on either end of the bridge, and through 511 Iowa.

Even while the bridge is open, Iowa DOT will continue to offer a shuttle and water taxi service which offers a scenic and relaxing way to cross the river. The service is offered Monday through Saturday, with scheduled departures starting as early as 6:45 AM and ending at 5:37 PM. The service includes designated vehicle parking areas at the Lansing City Hall in Iowa and the DeSoto Community Center in Wisconsin. From those locations, a shuttle will drive passengers to the river landings where the water taxi will cross the river.

Free Shuttle and Water Taxi

Free water taxi and shuttle service between Iowa and Wisconsin will be in place for passengers until repairs are made to the existing bridge.
Accessible to all riders and will shuttle you between the Lansing Marina in Iowa and Big Slough Landing in Wisconsin.
Available Monday through Saturday (not available on Sunday).
All riders must get off of the water taxi at each stop.