Rock Island Swing Bridge preservation plan at risk

The Rock Island Swing Bridge, as seen from Newport. The eastern half of the bridge was demolished earlier this year, after a portion collapsed. The western approach to the bridge from Inver Grove Heights was temporarily removed, in anticipation of the eventual restoration of the bridge.

(Photo: Keith Erickson)

A plan to preserve a portion of the Rock Island Swing Bridge in Inver Grove Heights is at risk, the Star Tribune recently reported. Disagreements over who owns the bridge, and who should pay for the removal of unused portions is threatening to derail the project.

The City received $100,000 in funding for the project from the Legislature, and has access to a $1.3 million grant. $870,000 additional funding must be identified to complete the project.

To learn more about the bridge's history and proposals to maintain it, vist FMRs Rock Island Swing Bridge Overview page.