Blatnik closes for testing

Superior Telegram

A load testing project is set to begin at 10 p.m. July 22 on Interstate 535, the Blatnik Bridge.

The right lane in each direction will close as equipment and vehicles are positioned for testing, and the bridge closes to all motorists at 12:01 a.m. July 23. Multiple tests are planned throughout the night. After each test is complete, traffic will be allowed to cross the bridge and the bridge closed again, but alternate routes are recommended during the testing.  

The bridge is expected to reopen completely before dawn.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is conducting the testing as part of a study to better understand the current condition of the bridge and plan for future needs. The testing was scheduled at night to minimize the disruption to traffic.

While pedestrians are never allowed on the bridge, MnDOT spokeswoman Beth Petrowski stressed pedestrians other than those conducting the tests won’t be allowed on the bridge during the testing because of safety concerns such as large equipment, moving vehicles and dark conditions.