Building the Future While Honoring the Past: Powering the New Black Hawk Bridge Project
In the heart of Lansing, Iowa, a monumental project is taking shape that bridges not only the mighty Mississippi River but also the past and future. The historic Black Hawk Bridge, an iconic cantilever structure named after Chief Black Hawk, is being replaced to meet modern safety and traffic demands while preserving the distinctive appearance of its predecessor. This ambitious endeavor underscores both innovation and respect for history, and at The Hose Company, we’re proud to play a pivotal role with our Hydrauli-Flex hoses powering the ICE® equipment that drives the foundation of this engineering marvel.
A Historical Icon in Transition
The Black Hawk Bridge, with its unique suspended span design only connected at the bottom, has been a beloved landmark since its opening in 1931. It survived ice jams that led to a temporary closure from 1945 to 1957, standing tall as a testament to resilience and ingenuity. However, time, evolving traffic patterns, and the increasing size of modern vehicles have necessitated its replacement. The new bridge, designed to echo the aesthetic of the original while enhancing safety and functionality, will be a steel through-truss bridge standing 180 feet tall and stretching 1,352 feet across the river.
The Iowa and Wisconsin Departments of Transportation (DOT) are overseeing this $140 million project, with 80% federally funded and the remaining costs split between the two states. The result will be a wider, safer, and more efficient crossing that promises to serve the region for the next century.
Kraemer North America: Rising to the Challenge
Kraemer North America, LLC, headquartered in Plain, Wisconsin, was awarded the bid for this critical project. Known for their expertise in heavy civil construction, Kraemer’s reputation for safety, quality, and technical excellence makes them the perfect partner for this endeavor. Work began on November 2, 2023, and crews are diligently crafting the new bridge alongside the existing structure, which will be dismantled once its replacement is operational.
From deep below the muddy Mississippi riverbed to the towering steel peaks, every element of this project demonstrates Kraemer’s commitment to precision and progress. The new bridge foundations will be driven nearly three times deeper than the original structure, a feat requiring specialized equipment and engineering expertise.
Hydrauli-Flex Hoses: Powering Progress
At The Hose Company, we know that every great structure starts with a strong foundation. That’s why our Hydrauli-Flex hoses are a crucial component in the ICE® 110 Vibratory Driver/Extractor and ICE® 200 Vibratory Hammer used by Kraemer to drive caissons into the variable soils of the region. These hydraulic systems require hoses that can withstand extreme pressures and challenging conditions, and Hydrauli-Flex delivers unmatched reliability and performance.
The ICE® 110 is driving 9.5-foot and 10.5-foot caissons to depths of 80 to 120 feet, with plans to tackle 13.5-foot caissons reaching up to 150 feet. This work ensures the bridge’s stability and durability for generations to come. The precision and power of ICE® equipment, coupled with Hydrauli-Flex hoses, are enabling Kraemer to meet these demands on time and within budget.
A Legacy of Safety and Growth
The new Black Hawk Bridge is more than a crossing; it’s a promise of safe, reliable travel and economic opportunity for the Lansing area and beyond. With only 21 feet of space across both lanes and no shoulders, the existing bridge’s limitations have long hindered commercial freight and posed safety risks. The new structure addresses these challenges, offering wider lanes, better exits, and higher structural ratings.
As construction progresses, the Kraemer team continues to overcome obstacles, from weather to water flow and soil variability. Their dedication and expertise ensure that this bridge will stand as a symbol of progress and resilience for the next 100 years.
Looking Ahead
At The Hose Company, we’re honored to contribute to a project of such significance. Hydrauli-Flex hoses are engineered to perform in the most demanding environments, and it’s a privilege to see them play a role in building a landmark that will benefit so many.
Congratulations to Kraemer North America and everyone involved in this historic project. As the new Black Hawk Bridge rises, it’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when innovation, collaboration, and craftsmanship come together. Here’s to a future built on strong foundations and a bridge that connects more than just two shores.
