Lowry Avenue Bridge arch installation begins
01/01/2012
The new bridge is taking shape over the Mississippi River between North and Northeast Minneapolis. In mid-December the contractor began installing the Lowry Avenue Bridge arches.
“The arches are the exclamation points on this marvel of modern infrastructure. When this process is complete, we’ll have the signature connection between North and Northeast Minneapolis that has been envisioned from the start, and will be a staple of this region for 100-plus years,” said Hennepin County Commissioner Mark Stenglein.
The contractor began begin by lifting the south arch, alternating pieces between the east and west banks of the river, followed by lifting the north arch. A crane lifted each of the 22 pieces – nine pieces per arch and four connecting pieces – into place. The arches will eventually form a basket handle design, but the process is detailed and tedious work, and it will be some time before a recognizable arch is visible.
Weather permitting, work will continue throughout the winter, with the following milestones: Late December – The first four segments, base pieces weighing approximately 130,000 pounds each, will be installed. Early January – The segments reaching out over the Mississippi River, which weigh approximately 70-80,000 pounds each, will be installed. Mid-January – The last piece of the arch will be lifted into place. The next steps will involve installing the cables and lights, starting in February. Info at www.lowryavenuebridge.com.