Blatnik Bridge Closure Date Finally Narrowed Down
Yesterday, we finally got a look at what the Blatnik Bridge replacement is going to look like. While people are arguing about the design, I'm more locked into what really matters: when it's going to close and make my commutes miserable for the next 5 years.
Tied-Arch Design Selected For Bridge Replacement
I did have to laugh, though, when I saw someone say, "They took the blah from the Blatnik Bridge." Yes, the bridge is going to look similar, with the same arch style, rather than the cable-stayed design many hoped for.
I live in Superior and work in Duluth, like so many other people in the Northland. Every morning, I take the Blatnik Bridge to downtown Duluth. The Blatnik Bridge is always busy, and even single-lane closures for inspections and repairs cause traffic to back up.
Significant Traffic Impacts for the Region
When the bridge has closed in one direction in the past, it's been a nightmare. Cars have been backed up on Belknap Street to the roundabout near the Bong Bridge, and that was just in one direction.
They have a plan to minimize traffic congestion and disruption. Work has already begun on intersections in Superior, and other road projects they want to finish before the bridge replacement.
Blatnik Bridge Closure Begins This Winter
We've been told it will be early 2027 for the Blatnik Bridge closure. Now they've narrowed down the date to February or March 2027. They say the bridge will be closed for a maximum of 56 months.
Read More: Why Do We Need Two Bridges Between Duluth + Superior
New Bridge Opens Halloween 2031
MNDOT says the new bridge will be open to traffic on October 31st, 2031, just in time for Halloween. My 7th-grade daughter will be 18 when it opens. Wow, that's going to be a long time.