The current pedestrian bridge is owned and managed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). It was built in the 1960s. The bridge does not meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and was substantially damaged when it was struck twice in 2022 by vehicles traveling on Minnesota Highway 62. The damage resulted in the closure of the bridge for most of 2022, until expensive temporary repairs were made in January 2023.

There have been extensive discussions between City and MnDOT staff about a plan to replace the bridge. Funding for the project has been secured between a successful capital bonding request in 2023 and MnDOT Funds. MnDOT is also discussing adding a permanent 3rd westbound travel lane on Highway 62 along with a 20-ft tall noise wall. 

The City has engaged the engineering firm of Bolton-Menk to start the design process for the new bridge. 12 options were reviewed and staff is seeking confirmation of design option 1A so this project could be potentially built in 2025.