Construction of Metrolink's new $34 million transit maintenance facility in Rock Island is progressing on schedule and is expected to open early next year.

A major stage of the construction project was completed Wednesday when one of the five 80,000-pound steel trusses was erected over what will become the maintenance area of the building.

The new Metrolink site is at 4501 4th Ave., Rock Island, and when complete will give the public transit system a larger and more efficient facility.

Metrolink's Jennifer Garrity said $28.6 million of the $30 million allocated for construction of the complex has been contracted to local contractors and suppliers. When construction work picks up in the summer, around 200 workers will be employed at the site.

A 300-ton crane has been brought to the site in addition to an existing 40-ton crane to lift and set five 130-foot-long trusses over the maintenance area.

Bush Construction, Davenport, is the prime contractor for the project, while the Weitz Company of Des Moines, will act as construction manager.Bush has agreements with more than 30 subcontractors for the project.

A news conference was held Wednesday to allow local media to watch the truss being erected.

Rock Island Ald. Joy Murphy, 6th Ward, said the new MetroLINK complex could act a a catalyst to spur further development in the east end of the city.