FT. MADISON, IA -- The Burlington Northern Santa Fe bridge that crosses the Mississippi River between Fort Madison, IA and Niota, IL is going to have a weight limit imposed on the driving portion on the structure beginning Friday November 7, 2008. The following is a release from the Iowa Department of Transportation.
The Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railway Company has notified the Iowa Department of Transportation that they intend to impose a weight restriction on the vehicular portion of the Mississippi River bridge between Fort Madison, Iowa, and Niota, Ill. The toll bridge is privately-owned by BNSF. The weight limit on the bridge will be 8 tons.
The restriction takes effect Friday, Nov. 7, 2008, and will remain in effect until necessary repairs can be completed. BNSF anticipates the repairs may not be completed until the fall of 2009.
The weight restriction is being imposed due to the deteriorating condition of the support members of the roadway deck. The restriction DOES NOT apply to the railway portion of the structure.
Trucks, farm equipment and other vehicles exceeding 8 tons must select an alternative crossing. These vehicles will not be allowed across the bridge.
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