BETTENDORF, Iowa — Update Friday, Dec. 22: The second wave of road openings took place Friday, Dec. 22 as the project near TBK Bank Sports Complex nears its final stages.
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For over a year, Forest Grove Drive has been under construction near the TBK Sports Complex in Bettendorf, and this week construction crews have achieved a milestone in the project -- reopening the eastbound side of Forest Grove Drive.
“Since opening in 2018, the TBK Bank Sports Complex has become a national footprint for youth sporting events,” said Bettendorf City Administrator Decker Ploehn. “Not only that, it’s an economic catalyst. What’s been created in this area has far exceeded our expectations and we cannot be more excited for continued growth."
Two major changes will take place in this area in December:
- On Friday, Dec. 15, Forest Grove Drive is expected to open east of Middle Road and the Forest Grove roundabout. This also includes the intersections of Criswell Street and Utica Ridge Road. On Friday, traffic in this area is expected to increase.
- On Friday, Dec. 22, Middle Road is expected to open north of Forest Grove Drive along with Competition Drive located on either side of Middle Road. This area is where the Kwik Star and other local businesses currently operate. Once Iron Tee opens later in Spring 2024 people will be able to drive from The Plex to Iron Tee via Competition Drive.
In Fall 2024, the city expects to begin construction of a pedestrian bridge at I-80 and Middle Road to allow people to safely walk, run or bike over Middle Road.
“This connects the TBK Bank Sports Complex Corner with the Iron Tee Corner of Forest Grove Drive and Middle Road,” said Jeff Reiter, assistant city administrator and economic development director. “As an added bonus, it serves as a connector in our regional trail system between Davenport and LeClaire and allows walkers, runners, and cyclists a spot to stop in this awesome tourism destination and take a well deserved break in one of the many amenities offered in this growing area of our community."
According to the city of Bettendorf, the design plan for the pedestrian bridge are about 40% complete and is anticipated to be finished in Summer 2024. Funding for the construction will come from local bonds rather than increasing city taxes.
“This investment is yet another example of the success we’re seeing in this area and the reason why we need to provide a grand entrance for visitors and residents to see how special Bettendorf and the Quad Cities are. We are excited to move forward,” Reiter said.
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