Julien Dubuque Bridge Closure Is Underway
What You Need to Know - updated 7/16/26
The Julien Dubuque Bridge (Highway 20) connecting Dubuque, IA and East Dubuque, IL is closing in various phases for major repairs.
Beginning Monday, July 6, weather permitting, the bridge is closed in both directions for repairs. The closure is expected to last 30 days. Except for the July 4th holiday weekend, the bridge will not reopen at any point during this time, including evenings and weekends.
During the closure, drivers will follow a marked detour. Eastbound traffic should travel north on U.S. 61 to Wisconsin Highway 11, then south on Wisconsin Highway 35/Illinois Highway 35. Westbound traffic will use the same route in reverse.
The Iowa DOT reminds motorists to drive with caution, obey the posted speed limit and other signs in the work area, and be aware that traffic fines for moving violations are at least double in work zones. As in all work zones, drivers should stay alert, allow ample space between vehicles, and wear seat belts.
The latest traveler information is available anytime through our 511 system. Visit 511ia.org; call 511 (within Iowa) or 800-288-1047 (nationwide); stay connected with 511 on Facebook or X (find links at https://iowadot.gov/travel-tools/iowa-511/511-social-media-sites); or download the free app to your mobile device.
It’s easy to subscribe to Your 511 and sign up to receive email/text alerts. Visit https://new.511ia.org/#login to sign up. For instructions and help with this feature, visit https://www.511ia.org/help/section/how-to-create-and-manage-a-511-account.html.
Official Detour Route & Travel Tips
Coming from Dubuque:
Start on US Hwy 20 in Dubuque
Head north to the IA–WI Bridge (US 61 / 151)
Cross into Wisconsin
Follow:
WI-11
WI-35 (south along the river)
Cross into Illinois via IL-35
Reconnect with US Hwy 20 in East Dubuque
Plan for:
Increased traffic on alternate routes
Longer drive times (10-20 minutes, depending on traffic)
Delays during peak travel times
Stop In & Stock Up. it’s Worth The Trip!
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We’re still a convenient stop for customers coming from:
Dubuque
East Dubuque
Platteville & Southwest Wisconsin
Galena & Northwest Illinois
No matter your route, we’re worth the stop.
Stay Updated
We’ll keep this page updated with the latest information on:
Closure timelines
Traffic changes
Travel tips
Check back before your next trip to plan ahead.
