Miller-Meeks Secures $6 Million to Restore Burlington’s Historic Cascade Bridge

BURLINGTON, IA – In a press conference with city, county, and state leaders, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks today announced that $6 million in Community Project Funding she secured for the City of Burlington’s Cascade Bridge Project has officially been signed into law.

The funding will replace the deteriorated Cascade Bridge with a modern, safe, and fully functional structure while preserving its historic character and legacy.

“When I first sat down with local leaders and heard about the importance of this bridge, I knew this was a project worth fighting for,” said Miller-Meeks. “From our earliest conversations to submitting the formal request and advocating for it in Washington, my office worked to make sure Burlington’s voice was heard. This $6 million investment restores connectivity, improves safety, strengthens access to our park system, and preserves an important piece of our city’s history.”

"This investment is a game-changer for Burlington," said Mayor Jon D. Billups. "I want to thank Representative Miller-Meeks for her strong partnership and commitment to our community. This funding allows us to continue moving forward with a project that restores a vital transportation corridor and will serve the community for generations to come."

For far too long, the Cascade Bridge has sat closed and deteriorating, a historic landmark unable to serve the community it once connected. Built in 1896 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the bridge is more than infrastructure. It is part of Burlington’s identity.

The project enhances public safety, improves accessibility between downtown and the blufftop parks, and supports continued economic vitality in the region, all while honoring the historic essence of the original structure.

Click here to watch the full press conference on KWQC or the City of Burlington’s YouTube channel.

Project Details

• $6 Million for the City of Burlington Cascade Bridge Project: The funding would be used to replace the deteriorated Cascade Bridge with a modern, safe, and functional structure while preserving its historical essence.

Background:

Congresswoman Miller-Meeks included the historic funding as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Consolidated Appropriations package, which passed the House and Senate with bipartisan support, and has been signed into law by President Trump.

This investment is part of the more than $24 million in Community Project Funding Miller‑Meeks secured for Southeast Iowa in the 119th Congress alone, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to delivering federal resources back to the district.

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