Preserving History while Building for the Future - The Stone Arch Bridge Construction

Closure and Reopening Timeline

A portion of the Stone Arch Bridge will close in the first week of December 2023 and remain closed until the spring of 2025. The St. Anthony Main side of the bridge closed in April 2023 and will reopen as crews close the downtown Minneapolis side. The downtown side is set to close starting the week of Dec. 2, 2023, and will remain closed until the fall of 2025. The project is expected to wrap up by spring 2026.

During this construction period, the bridge will be a hive of activity with crews working tirelessly to repair and replace stones and mortar along the entire 2,100-foot-long structure. This meticulous work is essential to maintain the bridge's historical significance and ensure its longevity for future generations.

Pedestrian and Bicyclist Detours

As the downtown side of the bridge closes, MnDOT has provided detailed detour routes for pedestrians and bicyclists. The pedestrian detour includes SE 6th Ave. to SE 2nd St. to Central Ave./Third Ave. Bridge to S. 1st St. Northbound bicyclists can take W. River Pkwy. to Portland Ave. to S. 2nd St. to Third Ave. Bridge/Central Ave. to SE University Ave. to SE 6th Ave. Southbound bicyclists can follow SE 6th Ave. to SE 4th St. to Central Ave./Third Ave. Bridge to S. 2nd St. to Portland Ave. to W. River Pkwy.

These detour routes ensure that pedestrians and bicyclists can still access the areas on either side of the bridge while construction is underway. MnDOT has made every effort to minimize disruptions and provide safe alternative routes for those who rely on the bridge for their daily commutes or recreational activities.

Project Details and Costs

The two-year construction project is estimated to cost $35.8 million and involves extensive repairs and replacements of stones and mortar along the entire length of the bridge. This meticulous work is being carried out by a team of skilled professionals who are dedicated to preserving the historical significance of the Stone Arch Bridge.

The bridge's historical significance cannot be overstated. As a Minneapolis landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it holds a special place in the hearts of the city's residents and visitors alike. The restoration work is not only about maintaining the bridge's structural integrity but also about preserving its architectural and cultural heritage.