Don Welge Memorial Bridge Opens, Strengthening Missouri–Illinois Connection.

Dear Friends, 

On Friday, July 11, I was honored to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the Don Welge Memorial Bridge, a significant milestone for the communities of Perryville, Missouri, and Chester, Illinois. Hosted by the Missouri and Illinois Departments of Transportation, the ceremony was held at the center of the new bridge spanning the Mississippi River and connecting Missouri Route 51 with Illinois Route 150.

This project represents years of collaboration and commitment to improving safety, transportation, and economic opportunities for our region. In the summer of 2022, I met with Illinois Senator Terry Bryant, Representative David Friess, and the late Don Welge, President and CEO of Gilster-Mary Lee Corporation, to discuss the urgent need to replace the aging Chester Bridge, which had served the region since 1942. 

The previous bridge had deteriorated significantly over the years. During periods of high water on the Mississippi River, flooding often closed the Missouri approach, disrupting travel and commerce. In addition, the bridge's narrow lanes made it difficult—and at times impossible—for large agricultural equipment to cross safely, requiring temporary closures in both directions. 

Originally, an environmental study for the replacement project was not scheduled to begin until 2026. However, recognizing the bridge's deteriorating condition, Missouri and Illinois officials worked together to accelerate the project by two years. In March 2023, the Ames Team—comprised of Ames Construction Inc. and Parsons Transportation Group—was selected to design and construct the new bridge.

The completed bridge is a modern three-tower, cable-stayed structure representing a joint investment of approximately $307.1 million by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). It provides a safer, more reliable crossing for motorists, agricultural producers, commercial traffic, and the many residents who depend on this important transportation corridor.

The day's celebration began with a community 5K run and walk across the bridge, followed by a public bridge walk before the official ribbon-cutting ceremony. Hundreds of residents from both Missouri and Illinois gathered to celebrate this historic achievement and honor Don Welge’s vision and leadership, which played such an important role in bringing this project to its completion.

The Don Welge Memorial Bridge stands as a lasting investment in the future of southeast Missouri and southern Illinois, ensuring safer travel, stronger economic connections, and improved transportation for generations to come. 

My best to you!