The Camden Bridge over the Mississippi River in Minneapolis will reopen to traffic Saturday afternoon, city officials said Friday.
The bridge, which connects north and northeast Minneapolis, has been closed since April 12 for major rehabilitation. In addition to the river, it spans Interstate Hwy. 94, connecting 42nd Avenue N. on the west side and 37th Avenue NE. on the east.
Opened in 1975, the bridge had deteriorated so badly that it needed repairs every year to keep it safe for public use, according to the city.
Planning for the repairs just completed started in 2004, but had been on hold for lack of funding. The project went forward due to $10 million in federal stimulus funding, according to the city.
The bridge now sports a new deck with a new driving surface, sidewalks, railings and lighting. Beneath the deck, "fracture critical" pin and hanger connections were replaced.
The bridge will be repainted next year, but will remain open to traffic when that work is done.
SARAH LEMAGIE
