Oct 5, 2026, 1:38 PM CT
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Travelers crossing between Wisconsin and Lansing, Iowa will soon have a direct route across the Mississippi River once again, as state transportation officials announced the new IA 9 / WIS 82 bridge is set to open on Friday, November 6. The milestone comes months ahead of the original target completion date of spring 2027, driven by efficient construction progress and favorable weather conditions.
The expedited timeline marks significant progress for the multi-year infrastructure effort, which began in late 2023. Following the demolition of the previous structure in December 2025, commuter and freight traffic relied on a temporary, free car ferry service jointly operated by WisDOT and Iowa DOT. With the ferry handling upwards of 550 vehicles daily during peak summer months, the upcoming opening will restore seamless regional connectivity and substantially reduce travel times for residents and local businesses.
While traffic will resume on the main span in early November, remaining work will continue through winter and into early 2027. Work crews will focus on site restoration around the ferry landing sites, removal of legacy bridge piers, and final deck adjustments. Department officials noted that minor lane restrictions may occur during final touch-ups in the spring, but no full closures are anticipated before the entire project wraps up in late spring 2027.
Todd Coppernoll oversees local news for WRCO and WRCE radio in Richland Center. Having served Richland Center as Mayor for three terms, Todd brings a unique perspective, and a familiar voice to the news. The focus is local, and so is the reporter.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at adam.hess@civicmedia.us.
