Residents of Davenport’s Riverbend neighborhood should expect a temporary change to their daily commute beginning Monday, October 21. The city’s public works department will close one of the two westbound lanes on East River Drive as construction crews begin a multi‑phase redesign of the intersection at McClellan Boulevard and River Street.
Why the lane reduction?
The intersection has operated with temporary traffic blocks since the summer, creating congestion and safety concerns for both drivers and pedestrians. City officials say the new design will permanently slow traffic through the residential area, improving safety for families, children walking to school, and seniors who use the nearby sidewalks.
Scope of the project
In addition to the lane reduction, crews will install new concrete curbs and upgrade the sidewalks along East River Drive. The improvements are intended to provide a smoother transition between the street and the riverfront trail, enhance drainage, and give the neighborhood a more polished, walkable streetscape.
Timeline and impact
The construction is scheduled to run from Monday through early December. During this period, drivers traveling westbound will be directed to a single lane that merges before the McClellan Boulevard intersection. Signage and temporary traffic control devices will guide motorists safely through the work zone. The city asks commuters to allow extra travel time and consider alternate routes such as River Street or the nearby I‑80 frontage roads.
Community response
Local business owners and residents have expressed support for the long‑term benefits of the project. “We’ve been dealing with stop‑and‑go traffic for months,” said Maria Lopez, owner of a nearby coffee shop. “A permanent solution that calms traffic and makes the sidewalks safer is exactly what our neighborhood needs.” The city’s public works director, Tom Jensen, emphasized that the project aligns with Davenport’s broader plan to improve pedestrian infrastructure and promote a more family‑friendly environment.
What to expect on the road
Motorists should follow the posted signs, reduce speed in the work zone, and be prepared for occasional lane shifts as crews complete curb and sidewalk work. The city will post updates on its website and social media channels, and a dedicated hotline (563‑555‑0123) is available for questions about the construction schedule.
Looking ahead
When the project is completed, the intersection will feature a narrower roadway that naturally slows traffic, new curb lines that guide vehicles safely, and wider sidewalks that encourage walking and biking. City officials anticipate that these changes will reduce accidents, improve air quality by limiting idling, and enhance the overall quality of life for families living near the riverfront.
For the latest information, residents can visit the City of Davenport public works page or follow the department’s Twitter feed @DavenportWorks.
Original reporting: KWQC TV6 Davenport (local) — read the source article.
