PEORIA – State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria, joined with Gov. JB Pritzker and officials from the Illinois Department of Transportation to mark the completion of the Murray Baker Bridge’s renovation project Monday.

“The revitalization of the Murray Baker Bridge was a long time coming," Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) said. "The peace of mind that comes with regular maintenance of our roads and bridges cannot be understated and the newly installed lights add to the already magnificent Peoria skyline."

The $42.2 million rehabilitation project, for which Koehler was a key advocate during negotiations for the Rebuild Illinois construction plan, removed and replaced the existing bridge deck, repaired structural steel, repainted lower portions of the bridge and installed new lighting, resulting in a smoother, safer ride for commuter and freight traffic. Decorative lighting was also added to emphasize a community landmark.

Built in 1958, the Murray Baker Bridge is utilized by 68,000 vehicles a day on average and carries Interstate 74 over the Illinois River, uniting Peoria and East Peoria. The most recent upgrade was in 2005, with the last replacement of the bridge deck in 1984.

The Murray Baker Bridge will reopen on Oct. 31.