Site work, paving and renovation of a bridge / tunnel in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Conceptual plans call for the renovation of a bridge / tunnel; for site work for a bridge / tunnel; and for paving for a bridge / tunnel.

Recondition existing Bridge #27636 and approach bridges #27537 and #27538 along Hennepin Avenue (CSAH 52) over the Mississippi River in the City of Minneapolis. Purpose & Description: The existing Hennepin Avenue Bridge (built in 1988) includes a steel cable suspension design that is showing signs of deterioration, specifically in its steel members, caused by the loss of their protective coating. The bridge deck is also showing signs of cracking, allowing water to penetrate below the surface. Additionally, many of the vaults are experiencing ponding, indicating the need for dehumidification. Furthermore, the nearby approach bridges, originally installed in 1971 (westbound) and 1973 (eastbound), are also showing signs of deterioration. Since being opened to traffic, these two approach bridges have experienced deterioration across their decks, substructures, and superstructures. In 2023, the county completed a feasibility study on all three bridges that recommended strategic bridge preservation treatments based on a review of original construction plans, evaluation of inspection reports, and observations from site visits. Without timely preservation, these three bridges will continue to deteriorate, and necessary preservation costs will increase exponentially. The proposed project will preserve the iconic Hennepin Avenue (CSAH 52) Bridge over the Mississippi River and two approach bridges located immediately to the east. Project activities are anticipated to impact the existing decks, superstructures, substructures, and approaches of each bridge structure. Of specific note, are repairs to the main cables of the suspension bridge to slow the rate of deterioration and corrosion. In addition, sandblasting and repainting of the steel beam network is recommended as it is typically completed every 15 to 25 years during the life of a steel bridge. These strategic preservation treatments are anticipated to extend the useful life of these critical structures across the Mississippi River by approximately 25 to 40 years. Furthermore, this project will be coordinated with Metro Transit's implementation of its E Line Arterial Bus Rapid Transit (ABRT) service. The E line service will extend along Hennepin Avenue (CSAH 52) and is anticipated to include an ABRT station at the nearby Hennepin Avenue (CSAH 52) and 2nd Street North intersection that is located immediately west of this project. This bridge preservation project is critical to ensuring a connection across the Mississippi River, including E Line customers. As of March 27, 2025 ,This project is included in the County's 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) *Project information has been obtained through a public capital improvement plan (CIP). A CIP is a financial schedule for short- and long-range projects which is updated regularly. Information listed in the CIP often evolves based on funding availability and the project details, including timeline and value, are subject to change. The content management team will continue to pursue additional details as they become available.