MnDOT, WisDOT begin summer fieldwork on Blatnik Bridge project
DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota and Wisconsin departments of transportation are beginning fieldwork on the Blatnik Bridge project this month, and residents will experience noise on both sides of the bridge.
Crews will be conducting geotechnical pile load testing at six locations in Duluth and Superior, Wis. A crane will be used at each location with a pile driving hammer, and noise can be expected during the day. Results from this testing are used to help engineers design more efficient and cost-effective foundation systems for the new bridge. Construction of the bridge is anticipated to begin in 2026.
Summer work also includes multiple excavations of select proposed pier locations for the new bridge. There will be soil borings at various locations.
Residents can expect to see field work July-October on Rice’s Point in Duluth. A portion of the work zone is located within the DNR boat launch parking lot and will impact available parking. Work on Connor’s Point in Superior will be August-October. Work on the bridge approach in Superior will be September-December, and traffic will be impacted by a single lane closure near the ramp from Hwy 53 to North 3rd Street and the ramp from North 3rd Street to I-535/Hwy 53.
For more information on the project, please visit mndot.gov/d1/projects/blatnik-bridge. A video explaining the purpose and process of pile load testing is also posted to the project website.
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