News Release

Roseville, Minn.— The Stillwater Lift Bridge repair project began in spring 2005 and is scheduled for completion in May 2006. Currently repairs are being made from barge boats underneath the bridge. Motorists will not experience significant traffic delays until August 1, 2005 when the bridge will be totally closed to traffic. The lift bridge will reopen in early November 2005, with intermittent bridge closures continuing from November 2005 through the completion of project. Motorists are encouraged to use the I-94 river crossing in Hudson , Wisconsin . The detours include Highway 95 south to I-94 in Minnesota and in Wisconsin Highway 35 to I-94 at Hudson , Wisconsin . Boat traffic will be accommodated during the bridge closure by removal of one of the bridge spans.

The Stillwater Lift Bridge repair project includes:

• Replacing the electrical components of the lift-span drive system, which were installed in 1983;
• Replacing the existing concrete deck with reinforced cast-in-place concrete deck;
• Repairing the Tender's House and constructing a supplemental Tender's House on the north side of the lift-span immediately east of the existing Tender's House; and
• Painting and repairing the pedestrian railings, including concrete repairs to the sidewalk support system.

Additional information is available at www.dot.state.mn.us/metro/projects/liftbridge/.

Mn/DOT reminds motorists to SLOW DOWN in the work zone and NEVER enter a roadway that has been blocked with barriers or cones. Please join us in a safety partnership. For statewide traffic, construction and travel information visit www.511mn.org or call 511.

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