Motorists can expect lane closures on I-35 starting on June 8. Starting on Friday, June 12 at 10 p.m. and lasting until Monday, June 15 at 5 a.m., I-35 will be closed for bridge demolition. During construction, lane closures will be required on I-35.
Pedestrians will be detoured starting on June 8 until October 2026. Three different detour stages will be used based on other area projects. Exact dates of stage changes are to be determined.
Pedestrian detour route for June 2026. Click image for full-size image
Pedestrian detour route from July to mid-August. Click image for full-size image
Pedestrian detour route for August through October. Click image for full-size image
About this project
Click image for full-size image
The pedestrian bridge over the I-35/Mesaba Avenue interchange in Duluth will be replaced in 2026.
This project is being delivered using the Design-Build contracting method, which allows for increased flexibility and collaboration between the designer and the contractor. While this approach can accelerate project delivery and improve coordination, it also means that design-build activities are already underway and certain schedules for design deliverables and construction milestones are managed at the contractor’s discretion. As a result, project timelines may shift as work progresses, and MnDOT’s ability to provide updates will depend on the contractor’s schedule.
A visual quality committee met regularly in 2023 to develop design guidance for this project. There will be decorative elements incorporated into the bridge.
Public meeting
MnDOT held a public meeting on Aug. 9, 2023, in the Lincoln Park Community Center to discuss the pedestrian bridge project. MnDOT gathered information on concerns with the existing bridge.
