AASHTO Journal, 31 May 2013
Minnesota and Wisconsin departments of transportation officials joined local community members Tuesday to officially begin construction on the St. Croix Crossing project that will replace the 80-year-old structurally deficient and over-capacity Stillwater Lift Bridge, which connects Stillwater and Oak Park Heights in Minnesota with St. Joseph, Wisconsin.
MnDOT announced last fall that the project, which had been stalled for decades due to federal approval processes related to the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (see related AASHTO Journal story here), had been moved up to begin construction in spring 2013 instead of 2014. The St. Croix Crossing Bridge, estimated to cost between $280 million and $310 million, will include four lanes for traffic that will connect expressways on both sides of the St. Croix River. The entire St. Croix Crossing project also includes trail systems and the construction of three miles of four-lane highway on Highway 35 in Wisconsin, as well as the reconstruction three miles of Highway 36 and Highway 95 in Minnesota. The entire project, including the bridge, will cost between $580 million and $676 million.
“After years of study, we are confident that this design will be the best fit for the environment and the best fit for the community,” said MnDOT Commissioner Charlie Zelle in a statement.
MnDOT Project Director Jon Chiglo also celebrated the project commencement, stressing what the new structure means for the traveling public.
“This bridge will provide a safer, more reliable crossing,” Chiglo said. “It will improve traffic safety and ease congestion in the St. Croix Valley. It will be structurally sound and well-lit for anyone crossing over or under it—including drivers, pedestrians and boaters.”
“Creating a safer, more reliable method of transportation between our neighboring states encourages interstate travel and opens the door for new economic opportunities,” said Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker of the bridge. “At a time when jobs are of the utmost importance, I am excited to see this project moving forward, and I am confident it will have a positive impact on our local workforce.”
The St. Croix Crossing is scheduled for completion in 2016. Additional information on the project is available at StCroixCrossing.org.
