Minnesota Department of Transportation

511 Travel Info

I-35W St. Anthony Falls Bridge

Mississippi River Crossing in downtown Minneapolis

Overview

Bridge features

  • 100-year life span
  • 10 lanes of traffic, five in each direction—two lanes wider than the former bridge
  • 189 feet wide—the previous bridge was 113 ft wide
  • 13 ft wide right shoulders and 14 ft wide left shoulders, the previous bridge had no shoulders
  • Light Rail Transport-ready which may help accommodate future transportation needs
  • MnDOT and its partners met and exceeded DBE minority participation goals
  • Structural enhancements include the use of high performance concrete to provide superior durability. There are also multiple levels of structural redundancy to provide a long-lasting bridge that will be economical to maintain.
  • A state-of-the-art sensor and monitoring system built into the bridge will allow for easier and more comprehensive monitoring throughout the bridge’s lifetime
  • A comprehensive safety program was implemented throughout all aspects of the design and construction process
  • Self-directed walking tour of the bridge (PDF)

Construction

timeline of bridge construction

Bridge elevation graphic