The New I-35W Bridge: A Safe, Smart, and Sustainable Concrete Bridge

The new I-35W Bridge in Minneapolis, Minnesota is a modern concrete for the future. Designed and built in 11 months, more than three months ahead of schedule, this design/build over the Mississippi River features elements such as sustainable eco-friendly materials, smart bridge technology, first use of LED's for major highway lighting, and concrete in the gateway sculptures that cleans the air. This segmental concrete achieves the Minnesota Department of Transportation's vision for quality, safety, and innovation. Cantilever construction of the 120 precast concrete segments required for the 504' main span across the Mississippi River was completed in just 47 days, with the last segment placed on July 10th, 2008. The community selected aesthetic elements of the design, including the curved pier shape, white color and feature lighting. Community involvement also provided educational opportunities and helped to restore the public's confidence in infrastructure. The new concrete was designed for Minnesota Department of Transportation by Figg Bridge Engineers, Inc. and constructed by Flatiron-Manson, J.V.