Mississippi Drive will remain closed as the City of Muscatine evaluates continued movement along the bluff and determines the safest approach for stabilizing the hillside and reopening the roadway.
The city has hired a geotechnical engineer through Stanley Consultants to assess the hillside failure and recommend stabilization measures. The engineer initially advised leaving the slide area undisturbed until recent rainfall passed. However, with rain ending Thursday, Nov. 5, city staff observed additional movement, with some debris reaching the roadway.
A preliminary stabilization plan has been provided, but the proposed work would require heavy equipment and construction activity, keeping Mississippi Drive closed while repairs are completed. The city is awaiting additional details from Stanley Consultants regarding the project’s scope, feasibility and cost, which are expected by the end of the week.
Crews do not plan to remove debris at this time. The hillside remains saturated, and allowing the slope additional time to dry will help reduce safety risks and provide a better understanding of existing conditions.
City staff plan to reassess the hillside next Monday after reviewing the engineering recommendations and allowing additional time for the ground to dry.
“The safety of our residents, motorists, and employees remains our highest priority as we evaluate the hillside and determine the best course of action,” said Steve Snider, interim public works director.
The city will provide additional updates as information becomes available. Motorists should obey all road closure signs and use alternate routes until Mississippi Drive can safely reopen.
