Julien Dubuque Bridge Live Cam

A beautiful bridge over the Mississippi River


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Julien Dubuque Bridge History

The Julien Dubuque Bridge is a historic bridge that spans the Mississippi River between Dubuque, Iowa and East Dubuque, Illinois. The bridge is named after Julien Dubuque, a French-Canadian explorer and fur trader who settled in the area in the late 18th century.

Construction of the bridge began in 1942 and was completed in 1943. It was designed by the Iowa State Highway Commission and built by the American Bridge Company. The bridge is a three-span cantilever truss structure, and at the time of its completion, it was the largest and heaviest bridge of its kind in the world.

The Julien Dubuque Bridge was an important transportation link between Iowa and Illinois, carrying both vehicular and pedestrian traffic across the Mississippi River. The bridge played a significant role in the development of the Dubuque region, providing a critical link for commerce and transportation.

In the 1970s, the bridge underwent a major renovation, which included the installation of new concrete decks and the replacement of the original steel guardrails with concrete ones. The renovation also included the addition of new lighting and a new paint job.

In 2002, the bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its significance in the areas of transportation and engineering. Today, the Julien Dubuque Bridge remains an important landmark and a key transportation link between Iowa and Illinois.

The Julien Dubuque Bridge area is situated in the Upper Mississippi River Valley, which is a region known for its scenic beauty and historic significance. The area around the bridge is characterized by rolling hills, river bluffs, and lush forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The cities of Dubuque, Iowa and East Dubuque, Illinois are located on opposite sides of the Mississippi River and are connected by the Julien Dubuque Bridge. Dubuque is the largest city in the area, with a population of around 57,000 people. It is known for its historic architecture, including the Fenelon Place Elevator, the Dubuque County Courthouse, and the Old Main building at the University of Dubuque.

East Dubuque, on the other hand, is a smaller city with a population of around 1,700 people. It is primarily an industrial town, with several large manufacturing facilities located in the area.

The Mississippi River itself is a major attraction in the area, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. The river is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and river otters.

Overall, the Julien Dubuque Bridge area is a beautiful and historic part of the Midwest, with plenty of natural beauty and cultural attractions to explore.

The neighborhood around the Julien Dubuque Bridge is a diverse and vibrant area that includes both residential and commercial properties. On the Iowa side of the bridge, the area is known as the Port of Dubuque and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The Port of Dubuque features a variety of attractions, including the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, the Dubuque Star Brewery and Museum, and the Diamond Jo Casino. There are also several hotels and restaurants in the area, making it a convenient place for visitors to stay and dine.

The neighborhood on the Illinois side of the bridge is known as East Dubuque and is primarily a residential area with a few small businesses. East Dubuque is home to several parks, including the Mississippi Riverfront Park, which offers scenic views of the river and the bridge.

Overall, the Julien Dubuque Bridge neighborhood is a dynamic and interesting area, with plenty of cultural and recreational opportunities. It is a popular destination for tourists, but also a great place to live for those who enjoy a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty.