Without bridge, Moline island returns to nature

MOLINE, Ill. — A 35-acre island in the Mississippi River is quiet these days after Moline officials shut down most access to the property.

The Moline Dispatch reports Sylvan Island was a popular park and mountain biking site. While the park remains open, access is limited to boats after officials closed a 100-year-old bridge leading to the property.

Rebuilding the bridge could take several years. The project has a $1.2 million price tag, but so far no money’s been approved.

While access is limited, nature is flourishing on the site.

Milkweed plants are more than six feet tall in some areas and typically mowed grass along trails is two feet tall.

Moline park officials say they’ll work to restore the island once the bridge is rebuilt or a new one is constructed.