Districts Impacted
INTRODUCTION
The Don Welge Memorial Bridge features a three-tower, cable-stayed bridge and represents a combined investment of approximately $307.1 million by MoDOT and IDOT. The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission approved the Southeast District's proposal to complete the Chester Bridge Replacement Project using the design-build project delivery method. The design-build method allows industry input on both the design and construction of this work.
In March 2023, the Ames Team—comprised of Ames Construction Inc. and Parsons Transportation Group—was selected to design and build the Don Welge Memorial Bridge. The project goal's included:
Project Goals
- Replace both structures within the project budget using durable 100-year, low maintenance structure(s).
- Provide a safe and reliable transportation solution for all modes of transportation.
- Complete the project no later than December 1, 2026 with the least impacts to all modes of transportation.
- Deliver the project safely while utilizing a diverse workforce.
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held July 11, 2026 to celebrate completion of the Don Welge Memorial Bridge. On July 13, 2026 the new bridge opened to one lane of traffic. A full opening of the bridge is anticipated in late July 2026.
View Photos from the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony I Watch the Livestream via Facebook
Timeline
News Release I Handout I Map I Displays
The open-house style meeting will be held on June 23 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Perryville Higher Education Center, 108 Progress Dr, Perryville, Missouri.
2 - 4 pm at the Catalyst Center for Business in Perryville, MO
View the Project Camera
MoDOT Selects Team to Replace Chester Bridge
The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission announced the selection of The Ames Team as the design-build contractor to replace the Chester Bridge. The bridge spans the Mississippi River, connecting the cities of Perryville, Missouri and Chester, Illinois via Missouri Route 51/Illinois Route 150.
The proposal from The Ames Team—comprised of Ames Construction Inc. and Parsons Transportation Group—was deemed to be of the apparent best value to taxpayers based on the project goals. The team will construct a three-tower, cable-stayed bridge, and completion is anticipated by the end of 2026. The project features a three-tower, cable-stayed bridge and represents a combined investment of approximately $307.1 million by MoDOT and IDOT.
FAQ
Visit the link below to learn more about the Chester Bridge. This provides an in-depth look at some of the most frequently asked questions regarding what’s next and the proposed replacement project.
History
The Chester Bridge is a truss bridge originally constructed in 1942 to allow vehicles to cross the Mississippi River between Perryville, Missouri and Chester, Illinois without using a ferry.
Stay Up-to-Date
Stay up-to-date on the next steps for the Chester Bridge by signing up to receive email updates! To subscribe, click the link below and select the option for the Chester Bridge under the Southeast District.
For More Information
Brian Okenfuss
Title
Chester Bridge Project Director
Department
Southeast District
Contact Info
(573) 258-9144
Email: chester_bridge@modot.mo.gov
(573) 258-9144
Email: chester_bridge@modot.mo.gov
Benji Philpot
Title
Chester Bridge Deputy Project Director
Department
Southeast District
Contact Info
Project Archive
- Commission Rejects Bridge Rehab Contract for Chester Bridge
- Transportation Officials Announce Chester Bridge Finding of No Significant Impa…
- Request for Qualifications
- Industry Meeting Presentation PDF
- Industry Meeting Sign-In Sheets
- Requests for Clarification
- MoDOT Shortlists Four Teams for Chester Bridge Design-Build Project