PERRYVILLE – Don Welge Memorial Bridge Ceremony (New Chester Bridge) – Public Information
On Saturday, July 11, 2026, the Race Across the River 5K will take place on the Don Welge Memorial Bridge.
Race Across the River 5K
Parking for registered 5K participants will be available between and beneath the new and old bridges. Participants must display their parking pass, either in printed form or electronically on their mobile device from the email from Mid America.
All 5K participants and their vehicles must be off the bridge grounds by 9:00 a.m. Any individuals remaining on the property after that time will be asked to leave, and any vehicles left on the grounds are subject to towing.
Due to the large number of participants and vehicle traffic associated with the race and in general, there will be no public spectator viewing areas available for the 5K.
Public Bridge Walk
The public will have the opportunity to walk designated portions of the Don Welge Memorial Bridge during the following times:
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Please note that the entire bridge will not be open for pedestrian access.
Bridge Dedication Ceremony
The official Don Welge Memorial Bridge Dedication Ceremony and ribbon cutting will begin at 11:00 a.m.
Public Parking and Shuttle Service
The only way to access the bridge walk and dedication ceremony is by utilizing the designated public parking locations and shuttle service.
Missouri Parking
Perryville Regional Airport, 1856 Highway H, Perryville, MO 63775
Illinois Parking
Cohen Complex, 3402 Bodes Lane, Chester, IL 62233
Shuttle buses will begin transporting visitors at 9:00 a.m. and will continue operating throughout the event until its conclusion.
Individuals with mobility concerns may contact the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) at (573) 380-5305 to arrange parking assistance.
Important Traffic Information
No pedestrian access will be permitted to the event site outside of the designated shuttle transportation. Anyone attempting to walk to the bridge will be denied entry and turned away.
No parking will be permitted on the shoulders of Missouri 51, Perry County Road (PCR) 239, Perry County Road (PCR) 944, or Levee Road.
Vehicles parked in these prohibited areas will be towed without prior owner notification at the owner’s expense.
For additional information regarding the event, please contact the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) at (573) 380-5305.