McClugage Bridge

McClugage Bridge is a road crossing over the Illinois River that links Peoria and East Peoria with two separate structures, each serving one direction of traffic. The newer eastbound structure provides three lanes, wide shoulders, and separate paths for bicycles and pedestrians.

The original structure opened in 1948 after post-war construction delays, and a second span was added in 1982 as traffic demands grew. These two construction periods mark how transportation needs evolved in the region over time.

The structure honors David H. McClugage, a former Peoria mayor whose work shaped how people moved across the region. His name connects the two riverbanks to the city's local history.

The structure can be accessed by clearly marked routes for cars, bicycles, and pedestrians approaching from either Peoria or East Peoria. Construction activity may cause delays during certain hours, so travelers should allow extra time when planning their crossing.

The project includes plans for memorial parks on both riverbanks that will reuse steel beams salvaged from the original bridge as it is replaced. These recycled materials will preserve a piece of the older structure within the new landscape design.