Iconic Minnesota Landmark Secures Big Federal Grant for Much-Needed Repairs

An iconic Minnesota landmark is about to get a big makeover as new funding is secured to do much needed repairs.

The new money for the project was announced by Minnesota Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and it will add to the $1.5 million that has already been earmarked for the rehabilitation project.

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New Funds Granted to Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge Restoration

The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded $11,200,000 for the more than 100 year old Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge to get some long needed repairs.

The grant money will help complete many projects, including repainting, replacement of deteriorated sections of the bridge, miscellaneous structural steel repairs, repairs to damaged concrete, and replacement of the sidewalks.

Big Investment for Duluth's #1 Landmark

The bridge, originally built in 1905 with a gondola to transport people, wagons, and vehicles across the canal, was eventually replaced with the lifting platform in 1929. And while projects have been done on the bridge over the years, this new funding will be the biggest investment into Duluth's most famous landmark.

In a press release about the new funding, Klobuchar says, "The Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge is a landmark and a vital part of Duluth’s transportation system. With this grant, the City of Duluth will make critical infrastructure improvements to make the Aerial Lift Bridge resilient for generations to come."

One Step Closer to The Goal

The project will cost a total of $20 million, and this new funding, along with the other funds already set aside for the project, will get the city and state one step closer to securing all the funds needed to complete the restoration project.

Duluth Public Works Director Jim Benning says, "In one fell swoop, the City of Duluth will replace pedestrian walkways, replace the bridge deck, apply new protective paint to the bridge, and make other structural improvements."

No word on when work will begin, but it will surely have a big impact on traffic and congestion in Canal Park once work begins, so stay tuned.