Prep Work for Replacement of Dubuque’s Highway 20 Catfish Creek Bridge Begins

In Iowa, the roadwork never seems to end, and I get it: salt on the roadways, snow and ice widen cracks through winter, and we have an overabundance of heavy machinery that also deteriorates our roadways.

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For the last week or two in Dubuque, we've dealt with the resurfacing of Highway 20, both in and out of Dubuque. Uneven lanes, single lanes, small speed bumps to traverse; now the project takes on an even bigger challenge at the Catfish Creek Bridge.

According to the City of Dubuque, this weekend, the Iowa Department of Transportation is kicking off work to replace the bridge that carries U.S. Highway 20 over Catfish Creek. If you drive that stretch of road regularly, expect to see orange cones, flashing signs, and the usual lineup of overnight crews setting up shop. Lane closures will be in place from 7 PM to 6 AM, Sunday through Thursday nights, for the next several weeks (up to 6 weeks) while crews build median crossovers.

What does that mean for drivers? The biggest immediate change will be the closure of the Century Drive intersection with U.S. 20. Right turns will still be allowed, but left turns and straight-through traffic will be cut off. For those used to accessing businesses or neighborhoods in the area, that detour might add a few extra minutes to the commute.

Long term, though, the work will pay off. The existing bridge is due for an upgrade, and the project promises a brand-new structure with wider shoulders, new approaches, and modern guardrails. These features will improve both safety and traffic flow. Actual bridge construction isn’t slated until spring 2026, but these early stages set the groundwork.

Remember, fines are doubled in construction zones. Make sure to obey the posted speed limit, prepare for interrupted traffic flow, and keep our road workers safe by driving safely. Any questions from the public can be answered by the DOT: simply call 563-927-2397.

For Dubuque residents, this project is another reminder that roadwork is as much a part of Iowa life as winter snow or summer humidity. It may cause some frustration in the short term, but the investment hopes to keep Highway 20 running safely and smoothly for decades to come.