Bison Bridge project included in resolution to go before the Illinois House
The Bison Bridge proposal to repurpose the Interstate 80 bridge over the Mississippi River into a wildlife crossing and pedestrian parkway is making its way through the Illinois House of Representatives.
Representative Mike Halpin introduced House Resolution 699 urging the Governor and the Secretary of the Department of Transportation to develop plans for the new I-80 bridge structure that includes the incorporation of the Bison Bridge. Representatives Tony McCombie and Dan Swanson have signed on as co-sponsors. HR 699 is now placed on the Calendar for a full vote.
In March 2021, the Chamber hosted Living Lands & Water founder and President Chad Pregracke as he laid out his groundbreaking vision to put the QC on the map: The Bison Bridge. As the Illinois Department of Transportation (I-DOT) is studying and preparing to make decisions about the location and design of a new I-80 replacement bridge the Bison Bridge Foundation has a plan to repurpose, with private dollars, the Interstate 80 bridge of the Mississippi into a wildlife crossing and pedestrian bridge rather than demolish it.
Pregracke’s long-term goal is creating a National Park that would elevate the stature of the region, aid in population growth and recruiting and retaining talent in the QC. The project would set the Quad Cities region apart from all its Mississippi River counterparts and raise its visibility as a national and international destination.
The Quad Cities Chamber is a strong advocate for Bison Bridge because of its potential to help grow the region's population and economy, two of the Chamber's top goals for the coming decade.
The Bison Bridge Foundation is asking businesses across the region to join the Quad Cities Chamber in publicly endorsing this project. Start by signing this petition. In addition, Chad is willing to give a 10-minute speech to organization boards or business groups regarding the project. Reach out to the Bison Bridge Foundation team.