City officials outline alternate TugFest parade route to avoid downtown construction

Parks & Recreation Director Greg Ludwig and Fire Chief Shane Bleeker outlined a proposed alternate route for the city’s annual TugFest parade to avoid areas affected by downtown construction during the Le Claire City Council Committee of the Whole meeting on July 6, 2026.

The proposed route, which Ludwig described as the product of a combined staff and organizer effort, was selected because it uses the widest, safest roadway available and is easier for floats to travel, according to Fire Chief Shane Bleeker. The TugFest Committee indicated it is in favor of the suggested route. The minutes record discussion of the proposal but do not show a formal vote or adoption of the route.

The discussion was presented as a collaborative effort among city staff and event organizers to maintain parade safety and accessibility while avoiding construction zones downtown. City Administrator Dennis Bockenstedt and other department heads were present for the discussion. The record does not include specific street names for the new route, a timeline for any final decision, or any required permits or traffic-control plans.

After the route discussion, Council Member Bill Bloom moved to adjourn and Council Member Sara Gravert seconded; the meeting adjourned at 6:39 p.m. on a unanimous voice vote, according to the minutes. Mayor Gerard and City Clerk Megan K. Smith attested to the minutes.

No formal action adopting the parade route or directing staff on next steps was recorded in the minutes; any implementation, permitting or traffic-control decisions were not specified.