Madison, WI – In a joint effort, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are appealing for more than one billion dollars from the US Department of Transportation’s Bridge Investment Program to replace the aging John A. Blatnik Bridge, which has connected Superior, WI, and Duluth, MN, for six decades.
The governors underscored the urgent need for funding, highlighting the deteriorating condition of the bridge, which has served as a vital transportation link between the two states. The joint press release emphasized the critical role the John A. Blatnik Bridge plays in connecting communities, facilitating opportunities, and supporting the economies of both Wisconsin and Minnesota.
The bridge, a key transportation artery for the region, is showing signs of wear and tear after 60 years of service. Governors Evers and Walz assert that securing funding for its replacement is imperative to ensure the safety and efficiency of the crucial link.
This marks the second collaborative effort by the states to obtain federal grants for the replacement of the John A. Blatnik Bridge. The request aligns with broader infrastructure initiatives and aims to address the challenges posed by an aging transportation network. The proposed funding would not only contribute to the safety and reliability of the bridge but also support the continued flow of goods, services, and economic vitality between Wisconsin and Minnesota.
