Long-Term Closure Of Stone Arch Bridge In Minnesota Looming

It's the time of year when the Minnesota Department of Transportation ramps up projects throughout the state, impacting residents and tourists alike.

This week, MnDOT prepped everyone for an upcoming long-term partial closure of the historic Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis to allow crews to begin work on a long-term preservation project.

The Stone Arch Bridge is a former railroad bridge crossing the Mississippi River at Saint Anthony Falls in downtown Minneapolis. It is the only arched bridge made of stone on the entire Mississippi River.

What Will Crews Be Doing On The Stone Arch Bridge?

This is part of a large project that involves crews making preservation repairs to the historic bridge. Stone repair and mortar replacement will slow deterioration and improve the bridge's condition.

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Work that is expected to be done includes:

• Repoint mortar on the entire bridge
• Repair/replace stone
• Additional repairs as required

Length Of Closure And The Impact To The Public

According to MnDOT, starting at 5:00 a.m. on Monday, April 15, the St. Anthony Main side of the bridge will be closed and it will remain closed through spring 2025 to allow both the public and construction crews safe during the work.

Pedestrians and bicyclists can bypass the closure to cross the river using the new protected pathways on the Highway 65/Third Avenue Bridge. MnDOT expects the downtown side of the bridge to be open until spring 2025.

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Also, pedestrians and bicyclists can walk or bike to the middle of the bridge and turn around at the closure point. Work on the downtown side of the bridge is anticipated to occur from spring through fall 2025.

Remember, that all construction activities and traffic impacts are weather and schedule-permitting and subject to change as needed. Construction is anticipated to be complete by spring 2026.