Leading Them to Water: New Bridge Carrying I-35W Will Offer More to the Community

In the aftermath of the collapse of the I-35W Bridge in Minneapolis, the reconstruction job is proceeding under a very tight schedule. This article discusses key aspects of the pre-construction planning and solicitation of feedback from community members living near the site, as well as the structure of the design-build contract. A charette was used to present two final options, both featuring hourglass-shaped piers standing about 70 feet tall. Shared elements also include a waterfront observation area, the preservation of an historic railroad abutment wall and the option of constructing a pedestrian bridge below. Among the many challenges is the 20-foot clearance envelope, the need to correct the geometry of the highway, and a 13-month schedule, which will run through the cold Minnesota winter. Actual erection will be done by one-directional cantilever construction. Foundation work has started and will continue through March, though pier construction will start in February 2008.