Contacts
- Beth Petrowske
218-725-2708
Location
MnDOT District 1
1123 Mesaba Ave
Duluth, MN 55811
218-725-2800
New lighting design selected for Blatnik Bridge
DULUTH, Minn. — The Blatnik Bridge will have a new lighting system in place by fall 2013.
Two systems were available for public comment until Sept. 4—one illuminating the bridge from the inside with a wash of light and the other lit with outline-style, down-lighting.
Public comments overwhelmingly preferred the illuminated design, which will feature strategically-placed fixtures that cast light off the interior of the structure.
“The illuminated design has many advantages over the other design,” said Daniel Erickson, MnDOT project manager. “It will be a great look for this landmark bridge, and I appreciate the public’s input to help us choose the final design.”
The Minnesota and Wisconsin departments of Transportation will each pay half of the estimated $1.2 million total cost to install the new system.
Final design work on the new lighting system will begin in a few weeks and be complete in January 2013. Construction will take place in summer 2013, and the system will be operational in fall 2013.
Illuminated design features:
- 35 percent energy savings
- Reduced number of fixtures and smaller distribution system
- Easier maintenance access to all fixtures
- Uniform light levels within the structure
- Dimmable, programmable LED fixtures
- Reduced glare for motorists
- Increased protection from snow and roadway salt spray
More information on the project can be found at www.mndot.gov/d1/projects/blatnikbridge/.
For updated travel information on all Minnesota roads, call 511 or click on www.511mn.org.
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