WI state budget includes $400M boost for project to replace major bridge connecting Superior and Duluth
Jul 05, 2023 09:18AM ● By Content Editor
Photo: The Blatnik Bridge first opened in 1961. After 60 years, the bridge is deteriorating and nearing the end of its useful life. Around 33,000 drivers use the bridge each day to travel between the two cities. Danielle Kaeding/WPR
By Danielle Kaeding - Wisconsin Public Radio - July 5, 2023
By Danielle Kaeding - Wisconsin Public Radio - July 5, 2023
An estimated $1.8 billion plan to replace a major bridge connecting Superior and Duluth will receive a $400 million boost under Wisconsin’s next two-year state budget.
This December will mark 62 years since the bridge first opened, and it needs to be replaced due to its deteriorating condition. It has been under load restrictions due to age, rust and corrosion on its primary trusses. The bridge also poses a safety risk because its crash rates are 7 to 10 times higher than the statewide averages in Wisconsin and Minnesota respectively.
To read the full story, visit the WPR News site here.
