Princeton's damaged Red Covered Bridge enters next rehabilitation phase

Big Bureau Creek’s current runs strong under Princeton’s Red Covered Bridge. The surrounding trees march through the passage of the seasons, turning from green to orange and red before going barren. The craftsmanship used to build the bridge’s wooden decking, siding and roof back in 1863 remain evident to this day.  

Just two things are missing: Traffic and people.  

The bridge, an Illinois landmark, has been closed for more than a year. Heavy barricades keep anyone taking a scenic drive on Bureau County Road 1950 E. Although there is access just up to the bridge’s entrance, the temporary bracing that has held up its roof from the elements has not made for an iconic background seen in photos throughout the generations. 

But this is not the end of the Red Covered Bridge’s story. 

IDOT’s District 3, where the bridge is located, has worked behind the scenes to prepare for the structure’s rehabilitation following a vehicle strike that left it severely damaged. 

The district has begun the first phase of engineering, also called Phase I, which will define the scope of work and a preliminary cost estimate.   

The process in reaching this point began immediately after a semi driver damaged sections of the of the bridge’s façade and roof in late 2023 while attempting to enter through the north end. IDOT responded quickly by inspecting the structure and working to ensure the roof was temporarily supported until a permanent fix could be made, preventing additional, costly damage. 

Other action by IDOT included: 

• In 2024, a structural engineering firm completed a thorough inspection and evaluation. The inspection reviewed the entire structure for typical aging over time and included initial concepts of potential repair techniques. The consultant’s findings have been documented in a Bridge Condition Report, which was reviewed and approved by IDOT this past January. 

• In April, IDOT received concurrence from the State Historic Preservation Office that IDOT’s preliminary repair plans will not adversely affect the historic nature of the bridge, a necessary step due to the historic nature of the bridge. 

The district is prepared to begin Phase II engineering as soon as Phase I design approval is received from the Region 2 engineer. Phase II includes the preparation of a detailed cost estimate and expected to take 12 to 18 months to complete and will result in advertising a repair contract to bidders. Approximately $1 million is identified to pay for the needed repairs in IDOT’s most recent multiyear program.

Community appreciates IDOT’s efforts for the bridge

Located a half mile west of Illinois 26 and a mile north of Princeton, the Red Covered Bridge draws tourists from around the globe. Before it was hit, the bridge serves as a picturesque backdrop for countless proms and weddings. It also has one distinction over the other covered bridges in Illinois: It is the only state-owned covered bridge open to traffic, having accommodated an average of 275 vehicles a day.  

The bridge survived a number of threats, both intentional and unintentional, including arson, erosion and high winds. It also has survived several strikes by large trucks. 

Although Princeton has a second covered bridge (the newer Captain Swift Covered Bridge owned by Bureau County spans Big Bureau Creek west of the city), Princeton City Manager Theresa Wittenauer said the Red Covered Bridge gets a lot of attention. 

“Princeton has always been passionate about our covered bridges, and we get a lot of inquiries about the status of the rebuild of this one — and how to prevent this type of accident in the future,” she said. 

Wittenauer said the city is thrilled to hear about IDOT’s recent plans moving forward, as well as funding being allocated for the rehabilitation of the historic Red Covered Bridge. 

“This project represents not only a vital investment in local infrastructure but also a meaningful commitment to preserving a cherished piece of our community’s heritage,” she said. “The Red Covered Bridge is a beloved landmark and a key attraction that draws visitors to our area, supporting local tourism and businesses.  We deeply appreciate IDOT’s support in helping safeguard this iconic structure for generations to come."