In 2026, the U.S. Department of Transportation will award up to $350 million in Competitive Highway Bridge Program (CHBP) grants to support critical infrastructure projects across the country. CHBP is a nationally competitive grant program that provides funding for transportation bridge infrastructure.
The Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT), in partnership with 20+ counties and cities, is applying to receive funding to rebuild 32 bridges in poor condition across the state. The Guthrie County bridge identified for this funding is the South Street bridge in Panora that spans the Middle Raccoon River by Lenon Mill Park. This bridge is more than 60-years-old and in need of a full replacement to improve safety, secure the connection between Panora, rural residents and recreational traffic, provide easier access for agricultural-related movement, and allow for more sustainable economic growth for both the city and the county.
The Iowa DOT says they need residents to tell the DOT how they use the bridge and thoughts on a potential wider, safer structure that can carry heavier loads. Linked below is a survey that will give us those insights. The survey should take no more than 5 minutes to complete. We appreciate your input!
