Princeton, IL – Plans to restore Princeton’s iconic Red Covered Bridge made major progress in 2025, with state approval now in place and engineering work narrowing down what repairs are needed and when construction could begin.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the scope of repairs for the 162-year-old bridge was finalized and approved by the State Historic Preservation Office on December 8. The bridge has remained closed since late 2023, when an oversized truck struck the structure, causing extensive damage.
The approved work includes full replacement of the bridge’s roof, roof cross bracing, damaged bracing rods, floor beams, and siding. Additional preservation upgrades are also planned, including new lighting and wiring, fire suppression piping, security cameras, and a fire-resistant interior coating. Exterior painting and repairs to the pump house are also part of the project.
IDOT officials presented the repair scope during an October coordination meeting with IDOT’s central office and the Federal Highway Administration, where no major objections were raised.
To prevent future crashes, IDOT is also considering a vehicle height detection system that would activate flashing warning lights before drivers reach the bridge, which has a clearance of just 10 feet, 11 inches. High-visibility signage with flashing beacons is also proposed along nearby approaches on Bureau County Road 1950 East, just west of Illinois Route 26.
Built in 1863 over Big Bureau Creek, the Red Covered Bridge has survived arson attempts, erosion, high winds, and multiple truck strikes. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the only state-owned covered bridge in Illinois still open to traffic, carrying about 275 vehicles daily before its closure.
IDOT District 3 is completing Phase I engineering, which will establish final costs. Phase II design work is expected to take less than a year, with roughly $1 million identified for repairs in IDOT’s multiyear program.
Due to strong local interest, IDOT will provide quarterly public updates as the project moves forward.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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