Ramsey County unexpectedly closed the Jackson Street bridge north of downtown St. Paul after a routine inspection found deterioration.
The two-lane, 1930s-era bridge sits between Empire Drive and Acker Street, north of Pennsylvania Avenue, and carries an estimated 3,500 vehicles daily over multiple railroad lines. In addition to being closed off to vehicles, bike and pedestrian traffic will also be prohibited.
The bridge has been placed under load restrictions in the past, hinting at structural deterioration. Bridge reconstruction was planned for 2028.
Public Works director Brian Isaacson said they have been watching the bridge’s condition over time, but he said his department was unaware of how fast the damages would occur…