Editor’s Note: Dave Engaldo submitted this press release.
The cities of Savanna, IL, and Sabula, IA, are planning a series of events around the dedication and opening of a new bridge, that spans the Mississippi River, linking the two communities.
The $80.6 million bridge replaces one constructed in 1932. It is funded with 80% Federal Transportation Funds, with the other 20% split equally between Illinois and Iowa. On May 26, 2017, the Illinois House of Representatives adopted HJR 58, which designates the Savanna-Sabula Bridge as the Dale Gardner Veterans Memorial Bridge.
U. S. Navy Captain Dale Gardner, who passed away unexpectedly on February 14, 2014, was a Savanna High School graduate. He rocketed into space and history on Space Shuttle Missions STS-8 and STS-51-A, on orbiters Challenger and Discovery, respectively.
Savanna Mayor Chris Lain has indicated that the bridge “opening” is projected to be in the Veteran’s Day timeframe. No firm date has been established by transportation officials. Three major events are currently being planned.
- A grand opening will feature veterans from both states coming to the center of the new bridge for a Ribbon Cutting ceremony, conducted by dignitaries from both states. Hopefully, there will be a fly-over as a tribute to our vets.
- Most likely in February or March 2018, there will be a celebration when the old bridge is imploded and removed from the river.
- A bridge dedication weekend of events will honor of NASA Astronaut Gardner and local area veterans, during Savanna’s annual Alumni Weekend, June 15-17, 2018.
- The Dedication ceremony will take place on Sunday, June 17, and include Governors of Illinois and Iowa; former Shuttle Astronauts who flew with Dale Gardner; veteran and political dignitaries.
Chosen by Mayors of both communities, group of Savanna and Sabula citizens has been organized, to plan and direct implementation of events and activities, associated with opening and dedicating the new bridge and removal of the old one. The group named itself the “Bridge Celebration Planners.”
For more information contact Dave Engaldo at dengaldo@yahoo.com or 815-666-7598.