UMN Bridge 9

Higher Education
Written By Eric Kassel

Details

Client

  • University of Minnesota

Location

Minneapolis, MN

Architect/Engineer

Barr Engineering

Loeffler Role

General Contractor

Market

Higher Education

Modernizing Essential Systems in a Landmark Setting

The City of Minneapolis began a large-scale, multi-phased maintenance project on the historic Northern Pacific Railroad Bridge No. 9 several years ago, with completion anticipated in 2028. As part of this effort, Loeffler was entrusted in 2020 to manage a two-phase relocation and replacement of the University’s steam and condensate lines that run beneath the bridge, supplying critical utilities to the West Bank campus.

In Phase 1, our team erected a temporary steel bridge to support new steam and condensate piping while inspections and system testing were completed. After successful inspections, the existing pipe support system was safely demolished. Once the City completes rehabilitation of Piers No. 6 and 7, Loeffler will begin Phase 2, which includes installing a permanent catwalk and completing all tie-ins.

Constructed in 1922 to carry freight over the Mississippi River, Bridge 9 was converted into a pedestrian bridge in 1986 and now connects the University’s East and West Bank campuses. Today, it remains not only a historic landmark but also a vital utility corridor for campus operations.

 

Meet the Project Team

John Barrick

Ben Nordquist

 

Related Projects

Featured
UMN Minnesota Landscape Arboretum New Entrance
Higher Education
UMN Minnesota Landscape Arboretum New Entrance
Higher Education

This transformative project enhances the visitor experience at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum by relocating the main entrance to the intersection of Highway 5 and Minnewashta Parkway, creating a safer, faster, and more intuitive arrival for guests.

Higher Education
UMN North Church Street Reconstruction
Higher Education
UMN North Church Street Reconstruction
Higher Education

The North Church Street project rebuilt nearly two city blocks of shared-use plaza between Washington Avenue and the Church Street Parking Garage. Serving as a central pedestrian and bicycle thoroughfare, the corridor also accommodates daily delivery vehicles to surrounding campus buildings, making careful planning essential.

Higher Education
UMN Knoll Area Infrastructure Improvements
Higher Education
UMN Knoll Area Infrastructure Improvements
Higher Education

Recognized as the oldest part of the University of Minnesota’s Minneapolis campus, the Knoll Area presented a unique set of logistical challenges. With an aggressive two-season schedule and a complex scope of both exterior and interior work, the project required a steady, experienced hand.

Higher Education
Eric Kassel
Previous

John F. Kennedy Elementary Addition
Next

Artspace Lofts Minot