This webpage is designed to help provide information on the City of Burlington's Jefferson Street Bridge Project. Should you have any specific questions about the construction activities, please contact the Department of Public Works at 262-342-1181.
Project Background
The Jefferson Street bridge, previously built as a wooden bridge about 1837, was the first bridge to span the Fox River to enable grain to be taken from Burlington to Kenosha. The bridge was rebuilt with concrete blocks in 1916, replaced about 1950 and then had major repair work completed in 1992. Several repair projects were completed throughout the span of time since the bridge was built.
Once again, the Jefferson Street bridge steadily deteriorated over time. In 2013 a study was performed that determined replacement to be the most effective repair option. The City of Burlington entered into an agreement with WISDOT to share the costs of planning and designing the replacement of the Jefferson Street bridge, with 80% of the design costs covered by State and Federal funds.
Project Description
Reconstruction of the Jefferson Street Bridge, between Bridge Street and Main Street, began in January 2023, closing Jefferson Street. The closure of Jefferson Street will last through the completion of the bridge repair project, which is projected to be completed by the Fall of 2023.
Traffic Closures
- Jefferson Street from Bridge Street to Spring Street
Boat Restriction Around the Jefferson Street Bridge
Boating restrictions on the waters of the Fox River are required as part of the Jefferson Street Bridge Replacement Project. These restrictions ensure that boaters are kept out of the construction zone where hazards may exist. A recently approved ordinance prohibits boating 100 feet upstream and downstream from the Jefferson St Bridge. The restriction will be communicated with markers placed in the river and at public access points within the City. This restriction will expire automatically upon completion of the bridge project or November 15, 2023.
Project Progress
With all construction projects, schedules are subject to change pending weather and other unforeseen impacts. This information is intended to be as accurate as possible, but may change from time to time.
Completed
- Bridge Deck Removal
- Beam Removal
- Overhead Utilities
Current Work
- Access & Substructure Removal
Future Work
- Substructure (Winter-Mid Spring)
- Superstructure (Mid Spring – Late Summer)
- Roadway (Late Summer - Fall)