A monument to bipartisanship

Persistence paid off for Cedar Rapids leaders who have been lobbying for years to win funding for a new Eighth Avenue Bridge that will fit into the city’s flood control system.

Last week came the announcement that federal dollars will provide $56.4 million for the project, or 80% of its cost. The city will come up with matching funds for the $76.1 million project, to replace the “Arc of Justice” bridge.

“As severe weather events intensify, the Arc of Justice Bridge will stand as a symbol of our work to shape a future where every community member can thrive,” said Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell in a statement welcoming the federal funding.

Funding was made possible through bipartisan cooperation in Congress. And Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley deserves considerable credit.

President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provided the funding. And Grassley was the lone member of the state’s all-Republican congressional delegation to support the law. Grassley clearly does not see eye-to-eye with Biden on most issues, but the senator understands he represents a state with major infrastructure needs.

Grassley’s vote came with some political risk as Donald Trump and other Republicans shunned GOP members of Congress who supported the bill. Grassley picked leadership over partisan politics so Cedar Rapids and other Iowa communities could benefit.

The new Eighth Avenue bridge will be elevated to provide another crucial roue across the Cedar River during major flooding. The single-pier designed to improve the flow of the river is expected to have a 100-year life span. It’s tall central pier and cable support structure also will be a striking addition to the city’s skyline.

Construction of the new bridge is expected to begin in 2027, coordinated both with the completion of west side flood protection and east side flood control being carried out by eh Army Corps of Engineers.

“This project holds significance for the entire community. I am incredibly proud of the team effort. Our perseverance has paid off,” City Manager Jeff Pomeranz said in a statement.

The bridge also will stand as a monument to what can be accomplished when partisan politics is put aside in the best interests of Iowans.

(319) 398-8262; editorial@thegazette.com