Users of the Stillwater Lift Bridge excited by the prospect of an early reopening for that crossing over the St. Croix River can put those hopes to rest.
The bridge is scheduled to open Dec. 14, and "it will not open early," said T.K. Kramascz, director of communications and public affairs for the Metropolitan District of the Minnesota Department of Transportation.
The bridge connecting Stillwater and the western Wisconsin community of Houlton was shut down in September for repairs to concrete, electrical and mechanical components. The work also includes painting portions of the bridge and replacing guardrails, curbs and gutters.
During its three-month closing, motorists have been directed to use crossings at Hudson and Osceola.
Some media were reporting that the work might finish in early December. But Kramascz said the opening date has always been Dec. 14 and "that date is firm."
TIM HARLOW
