UMN West Bank Skyway
Details
Client
- University of Minnesota
Location
Minneapolis, MN
Architect/Engineer
Busch Architects
Loeffler Role
General Contractor
Market
Higher Education
Strengthening a Vital Campus Connection
This project upgraded the exterior of the West Bank Skyway with demolition, framing, and installation of new Centria metal panels over Metro Transit’s right-of-way. The replacement of the exterior envelope addressed ongoing water infiltration issues and extended the life of this heavily used campus connection.
Despite a rainy spring that delayed Metro Transit’s planned light rail outage, Loeffler coordinated closely with the project team to keep work moving efficiently. The result was a project completed under budget and weeks ahead of schedule, with enough time to add a new sign welcoming students as they cross the Washington Bridge.
The most complex portion of the work took place during a 53-hour outage window, which Loeffler successfully completed in just 42 hours. This effort required careful planning to safely manage construction over active vehicle traffic, high-voltage lines, and busy pedestrian routes adjacent to the site.