The funding means motorists on the Southern Bridge won't have to stop for train traffic. The budget provision still needs to pass the Legislature.

Good and bad news share the update on Interstate 74 bridge construction. First the good news: By next month, the Iowa-bound span should no longer be reduced to one lane at the Bettendorf exit.

Going through Northwest Indiana on Interstate 94 between Illinois and Michigan would cost $3.15 each way for passenger vehicles and $17.10 for multi-axle trucks, according to the plan.

The success of the Ann Day Memorial Wildlife Bridge across Oracle Road just south of Catalina has conservationists contemplating such an amenity someday for critters to cross Interstate 10.

Now, it’s at their doorstep. Tree-clearing is underway for a new Interstate 80 interchange at Middle Road on the outskirts of Bettendorf near the TBK Bank Sports Complex development.