Dixon converting old rail bridge into new bike and pedestrian path over Rock River

DIXON, Ill. (WTVO) — The City of Dixon has begun construction of a $14 million bike and pedestrian bridge over the Rock River.

The new bridge is made possible by an $11.9 million federal Rebuilding American American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity grant, coupled with more than $2 million from the city.

The Illinois Department of Transportation will offer oversight on the project, which will extend a path from Viaduct Point over a new bridge, built on leftover piers from the old Illinois Central Railroad bridge, connecting to paths in Page Park.

Viaduct Point runs along the abandoned rail line, starting near IDOT’s District 2 headquarters on Depot Avenue and running across city streets via three historic stone arches, connected by a wooden boardwalk into downtown.

Ultimately, once finished, the new bridge will connect Dixon’s riverfront paths with Dixon High School and Page Park’s baseball diamonds and tennis courts.

“Today’s groundbreaking for a pedestrian bridge over the Rock River will create a safer and more accessible experience for Dixon residents and visitors. I am proud to support this project and will continue advocating for federal investments to improve our state’s infrastructure,” said Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin (D), at Tuesday’s groundbreaking ceremony.

The Project ROCK is part of a 20-year Dixon Riverfront Masterplan.

“After more than 27 years of vision and anticipation, it is amazing to see Project Rock become a reality,” said Dixon Mayor Glen Hughes.