A massive modernization of the Gordon Drive Viaduct in Sioux City is in the planning stages.
That viaduct is on a major arterial east-west road in the city, and it is expected to cost at least $150 million.
Under a plan approved by the Sioux City Council last week, the project could get distinctive aesthetic lighting, which could add about $2.7 million in cost. In discussing more than 50 budget items for next year, the council voted to spend more than $820,000 for the lighting in each of the years of 2029 through 2031.
The current viaduct is almost 90 years old, and it spans decades-old railways beneath.
The Iowa Department of Transportation has hired the engineering firm HDR to complete the reconstruction design of the Gordon Drive Viaduct, including the Bacon Creek Conduit.
Earlier this month, the city of Sioux City and IDOT moved into the right-of-way process to purchase property for the Gordon Drive Viaduct Project.
According to the Iowa DOT, the right-of-way process includes the design, negotiations, and purchase of land for the highway project, which will take roughly 18 months.
Plans aim to move the viaduct overpass/bridge to the south of its current location, and to have enough room for the new bridge, they need to acquire the additional property.
IDOT is currently dealing with 50 property owners and parcels of land. The estimated cost for right-of-way purchasing is $20.6 million. Businesses impacted by the project include Bacon Creek Country Store and Tastee’s In and Out.
Construction contract bidding is expected to begin in July 2027.
