Closing the Gap...

(Photos and story originally posted on Mn/DOT's website, 07/21/08)

Crews to close final gap on main river span of I-35W St. Anthony Falls Bridge this week
Construction crews this week will close the final gap in the main river span of the Interstate 35W St. Anthony Falls Bridge, according to Minnesota Department of Transportation officials.

Workers poured concrete to close the gap in the northbound span last Wednesday night, leaving only the southbound side of the main span to be completed. Once the concrete in the closure pours cures, construction vehicles will begin driving across the river and crews will focus on the project's remaining work. This work includes completing Span 4, paving approach roadways, painting, installing railings, lights and signage, striping the roadway, landscaping and other work that must be complete before the bridge opens to public traffic.

(The bridge is still scheduled to open well ahead of the original Christmas Eve opening date -- possibly as early as mid- to late-September. The earlier opening will result in a windfall in incentive bonuses for the contractors. - sjm)