Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
last mo.

USDOT Releases $1.06 Billion, Setting Blatnik Bridge Replacement to Begin in 2026

The long-delayed federal grant clears the last major funding hurdle for preliminary work to start later this year.

Image
The Blatnik Bridge connects Duluth, Minn., and Superior, Wis., at the mouth of the St. Louis River. (WDIO/file)

Overview

  • The federal disbursement completes a $1.058 billion grant first awarded in January 2024 under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
  • The project carries an estimated $1.8 billion price tag, with Minnesota and Wisconsin each committing $400 million in state funds.
  • The 1961 bridge carries about 33,000 vehicles daily and is rated in poor condition with existing weight restrictions that affect commerce.
  • USDOT said the release followed completion of required paperwork, and Secretary Sean Duffy cited a backlog of previously announced grants for the delay.
  • Gov. Tim Walz, Sen. Amy Klobuchar and Rep. Pete Stauber praised the milestone, and local officials describe the effort as one of the largest public works projects in Minnesota history.