Mississippi Drive closure remains in effect as engineers evaluate stabilization options

Mississippi Drive will remain closed while the City of Muscatine continues to evaluate hillside failure along the bluff and determine the safest option to reopen the roadway, according to a news release from the city.

The city has engaged a geotechnical engineer through Stanley Consultants to assess conditions along the bluff and provide recommendations for stabilizing the area. The engineer's initial recommendation was to leave the slide area undisturbed until recent rainfall stops.

With the rain ending Wednesday, city staff have observed additional movement within the slide area. Some debris has now reached the roadway, reinforcing concerns about the stability of the hillside and the potential risks associated with cleanup efforts at this time.

The engineer has also provided a preliminary recommendation for securing the hillside that could allow Mississippi Drive to reopen. However, the proposed solution would require the use of heavy equipment and construction activity, meaning the roadway would need to remain closed while stabilization work is completed.

The city is waiting for additional information from Stanley Consultants about the scope, feasibility, and cost of the recommended work. "Staff anticipate receiving that information by the end of the week," the release says.

At this time, crews do not plan to remove any debris from the hillside. The slope remains saturated from recent rainfall, and allowing it additional time to dry will help reduce safety risks and provide a clearer picture of existing conditions.

City staff plan to reassess the situation next Monday after the hillside has had additional time to dry and after the engineering recommendations have been reviewed in greater detail.

"We appreciate the community's patience and understanding as we work through this situation," said Steve Snider, interim public works director. "The safety of our residents, motorists, and employees remains our highest priority as we evaluate the hillside and determine the best course of action."

The city will continue to provide updates as additional information becomes available. Motorists are reminded to obey all closure signs and use alternate routes until Mississippi Drive can be safely reopened, the release says.

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