For a number of years, people living in the area wanted a bridge to replace the old bridge, which was called either the "High Bridge" or the "Wagon Bridge." However, economic conditions at the time made it difficult to get the financing together to build a new bridge. During World War II, a new bridge became even more important as it would help facilitate military transportation. In 1942, the first parts of the bridge were begun. In 1943, the bridge was completed. It was painted gray to help camouflage the bridge in case of enemy attack. Because the bridge was financed with bonds, it initially operated as a toll bridge. Proceeds were used to help pay off the bonds. In the post-war years, traffic was so heavy the bonds were paid off 11 years early, and the bridge became toll-free in 1954. In the early 1990s, the bridge underwent an extensive renovation. The deck was replaced, and a new walkway was installed. For many years, the bridge was a dark green color; however in more recent times it again has been painted a light gray color. Prior to the construction of the Dubuque-Wisconsin Bridge, the Julien Dubuque Bridge also carried US highways 61 and 151. This resulted in both of these highways passing a short distance through Jo Daviess County, Illinois between Dubuque and Wisconsin. Now both highways cross the Mississippi on the Dubuque–Wisconsin Bridge, which directly connects Wisconsin and Iowa, with neither US 61 nor US 151 passing through Illinois.
On June 9, 2008, the bridge was struck by a number of runaway barges shortly after 8 p.m. Fifteen barges — which were loaded with corn, soybeans, and iron ore - struck one of the pillars on the eastern side of the main channel. Unsure of whether the bridge was stable, authorities temporarily closed it until an inspection could be performed. Traffic was rerouted on to the Dubuque–Wisconsin Bridge a few miles to the north. On June 10 the Iowa Department of Transportation inspected the bridge and determined that it was safe for traffic. By 2:30 p.m. they had reopened the bridge to traffic. Authorities believe rapid currents present in the Mississippi River caused the barges to come loose and strike the bridge. The pilot and crew of the barge tested negative for alcohol intoxication and foul play was not suspected in this case.
Over the years, there has been considerable debate about the future of the bridge. Much of this debate centers on having a four-lane connection with Illinois. The debate has produced several options,
Expand the existing bridge to support four lanes.
Build a second two-lane bridge next to the existing bridge, and have traffic one way on each bridge.
Build a new four-lane bridge south of the Julien Dubuque Bridge, and leave the current bridge intact as an attraction or as a bridge for local traffic.
Tear down the Julien Dubuque Bridge, and replace it with a four-lane bridge that looks similar to the current bridge.
Most officials have indicated they would rather not do anything that detracts from the historically important bridge. Discussion about expansion of the bridge continues. While no firm plans have yet been made, officials are leaning towards building another bridge adjacent to the existing bridge.
