Location
The John A. Blatnik Bridge carries I-535 and US 53 over the Saint Louis Bay, a tributary of Lake Superior, between Superior, Wis., and Duluth, Minn.
Overview
Built in 1961, the Blatnik Bridge is nearing the end of its service life. To address this, the Wisconsin and Minnesota Departments of Transportation are planning to:
- Replace the existing structure and its aging infrastructure.
- Replace the I-535/WIS 35 interchange, reconstruct a segment of US 53 and reconfigure local streets, all in Superior.
- Once the project is complete, bridge traffic will have a direct connection to US 53.
- Add a multiuse path for pedestrians and bicyclists on the new bridge, with connections to paths on both sides of the bridge.
- Replace pavement markings and signage.
The structure is jointly owned and managed by the two transportation agencies. MnDOT is taking the lead on the project. More information can be found on the project website, including how to sign up for updates.
Schedule
- Preliminary design: 2023-26.
- Final design: 2026-27.
- Construction: 2026-32.
- The bridge is expected to be closed to traffic for four to five years; currently, the closure is anticipated to begin in 2027.
- The bridge is expected to reopen to traffic in 2031.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Project
During replacement of the Blatnik Bridge, Winter Street and Susquehanna Avenue will be used as alternate routes for traffic. WisDOT is planning to improve segments of both streets before the Blatnik is closed to traffic. More on that work can be found at the project website.
Contacts
Marc Bowker
WisDOT Northwest Region Planning Engineer
(715) 635-4973
marc.bowker@dot.wi.gov
Beth Cunningham
WisDOT Northwest Region Project Manager
(715) 635-4973
beth.cunningham@dot.wi.gov
Christena T. O'Brien
WisDOT Northwest Region Communications Manager
(715) 833-9814, (715) 829-9471
christena.obrien@dot.wi.gov
Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT)
Northwest Region, Superior Office
1701 N. 4th St.
Superior, WI 54880-1068
(715) 392-7925, (800) 590-1868
WI Telecommunications Relay System (TTY): 711
nwr.dtsd@dot.wi.gov