Drivers will have to continue the 36-mile detour that helps connect eastern Iowa with northwestern Illinois. Officials say work is taking longer than expected on a new bridge.

The U.S. 52 Mississippi overflow bridge at the north end of Sabula Island will remain closed a bit longer. The Iowa Department of Transportation says the extension is due to an unforeseen difficulty with drilling required for foundations.

According to a QC Times article, sandy soils are also creating problems and delays. The agency now says it expects the closure to extend into July.

I-DOT will post project updates online.

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