8TH avenue bridge replacement over the cedar river ARC of justice bridge project

The Federal Highway Administration awarded the City of Cedar Rapids $56.4 million on June 2, 2026, under the Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-Saving Transportation (PROTECT) Program (CFDA 20.284) to support replacement of the Arc of Justice Bridge over the Cedar River.

The project will construct a new long-span cable-stayed bridge designed to maintain access during major flood events and improve safety for all users, replacing the existing bridge due to severe flooding. The bridge replacement strengthens transportation resilience against flooding and extreme weather in accordance with the PROTECT Program's purpose of funding projects that enhance surface transportation resilience to natural hazards, including climate change and extreme weather events.

Performance occurs in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The period of performance extends from the award date through May 31, 2031. This is a project grant, an assistance type supporting a discrete infrastructure delivery rather than formula or ongoing operational funding.

Project description

The project will replace the ARC of justice bridge due to severe flooding. The project will construct a new long span cable-stayed bridge that maintains access during major flood events and improves safety for all users.