The I-74 Pedestrian Walkway, Linking Iowa and Illinois, Is Now Open

The long-awaited pedestrian walkway that is a part of the new I-74 bridge is now open.

The walkway allows pedestrians to walk, bike, jog and run across the I-74 bridge in a way that keeps them safe from traffic, as it is built separately from the roadway.

Opening yesterday, many went out to check out the new link between Iowa and Illinois, allowing cyclists to ride straight into Moline from Bettendorf, rather than only having the option of crossing the Arsenal or Centennial bridges.

The biggest draw for the bridge is the Glass Oculus, a giant circular window looking through the floor of the walkway down to the river. It's surrounded by benches, for a resting point at the middle of the bridge with a view.

The oculus will light up at night, giving the bridge a fully lit experience between the lighted arches, lighted walkway, and lighted oculus.

So, go check out the nearly mile-long walkway between the two states. For a full experience, walk from one side to the other, enjoy a restful lunch at one of the many restaurants at the base of the bridges, and head back.

There should be some pockets of good weather this weekend.

Friday: High of 63 with morning showers

Saturday: High of 70 with scattered storms

Sunday: High of 56 with mostly cloudy

Let's take care of this thing. Pick up your garbage, and don't shoot the glass, please.