The long-anticipated replacement of the John A Blatnik Bridge between Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin, has commenced, following more than $1.05bn in funding from the US Department of Transportation (USDOT).  

The bridge, which has connected the two cities across St Louis Bay for 65 years, is a central freight and commuter link for the region, handling some 33,000 vehicles daily. 

Federal, Minnesota and Wisconsin state officials marked the groundbreaking as a key step in upgrading a structure regarded as critical for local and regional transport.  

Announced by US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, the project is jointly led by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), both of which are providing additional funding. 

The replacement comes after years of calls for investment in the corridor, with Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-8) among those highlighted for ongoing advocacy.  

Stauber said: “Today’s groundbreaking marks an exciting milestone for the Northland. Replacing the Blatnik Bridge has been a priority of mine since I was elected to Congress, which is why I brought our entire Minnesota delegation together and fought hard to bring these critical funds home.  

“I am grateful to Secretary Duffy and the Department of Transportation for honouring St. Louis County’s tradition of supporting Minnesota labour by continuing the use of Project Labor Agreements. I look forward to seeing the new bridge rise and deliver lasting benefits for the Twin Ports for generations to come.” 

Designated as Minnesota’s second-longest bridge, the Blatnik has faced significant maintenance needs due to age and usage.  

The planned replacement will reportedly improve safety standards and better accommodate the movement of oversize and overweight freight, according to MnDOT. 

Following over six years of planning, a contract to build the new bridge was awarded in June to Ames-Kraemer Joint Venture II.  

The project, according to Wisconsin state officials, is expected to employ approximately 1,100 workers on an annual basis through its completion, which is scheduled for 2032. 

Construction will accelerate in the coming years, with a full closure of the bridge anticipated for four to five years beginning in early 2027.  

The Blatnik Bridge replacement is primarily funded by the federal commitment made earlier in 2024 within the span of wider infrastructure priorities, while Minnesota and Wisconsin have also pledged financial support.