PERRYVILLE –- The plans have been announced for the opening ceremony of the Don Welge Memorial Bridge over the Mississippi River to be held Saturday, July 11, the 91st anniversary of the late Don Welge’s birth. The event is hosted by the Perryville-Chester Development Corporation. . The event is hosted by the Perryville-Chester Development Corporation.
The morning will begin with the Race Across the River hosted by Mid America Rehab at 7 a.m. This fun run/walk is an uncertified 5K loop that will begin and end on the bridge prior to the official opening.
At 11 a.m., dignitaries from both sides of the river representing Missouri and Illinois will gather to officially dedicate the bridge, share remarks, and participate in a ribbon cutting ceremony marking this once-in-a-generation milestone for our region.
The event is open to the public, and everyone is encouraged to attend this historic celebration!
Visitors will also be able to enjoy:
Commemorative t-shirts and coins available for purchase onsite the day of the event from the Perryville Chamber of Commerce and Chester Chamber of Commerce
Food and beverage trucks throughout the morning
Opportunities to walk the bridge and be part of history
The bridge honors the late Don Welge, longtime President of Gilster-Mary Lee, whose leadership and dedication to community and industry left a lasting impact on both Missouri and Illinois before his passing in 2020.
Members of the Welge family will be in attendance as the region celebrates his legacy and the opening of this important new connection across the river. July 11, 2026 is also the 91st anniversary of Welge’s birth.
We hope to see you there for this unforgettable day!