A reconstructed 18th Street bridge opened in the fall of 2005. Severe deficiencies associated with the original bridge, including deteriorated decking and low clearance issues, limited access to the area and stymied the city’s economic development efforts in the Rath Redevelopment Area. The project included 1,740 feet of new road and a 710-foot bridge spanning the Cedar River. Bridge architecture reflects the historic nature of the surrounding neighborhood and the former Rath Meatpacking Plant.
Project Funding Sources
$2,121,700
Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT)
Revitalize Iowa’s Sound Economy (RISE) Grant
$1,000,000
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
Federal Bridge Replacement Grant
$1,700,000
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
Federal Surface Transportation Program
$1,200,000
City of Waterloo Bonds & Local 1 Cent Option Tax
Project Timeline
08.2001 | ARTICLE
Project received a $2.1 million Iowa Department of Economic Development Revitalize Iowa’s Sound Economy (RISE) Grant.
06.2005 | ARTICLE
One lane of the 18th Street Bridge opened to the public.
09.2005 | ARTICLE
Original 18th Street Bridge structure demolished.
Fall 2005
New 18th Street Bridge opened.
02.2020 | ARTICLE
Business expands near foot of bridge.
Project Success Story
The reconstructed bridge allows for heavier truck traffic into the Rath Redevelopment Area. The expanded structure also gives direct access to Highway 218 located a short distance from key commercial and industrial redevelopment sites. The new 18th Street bridge continues to serve as a catalyst for economic redevelopment in the area.