Third Avenue Bridge Project Photos and Other Scenes of Interest from Doug Verdier

Submitted by Mill District resident, Doug Verdier

Warmer weather this past week brought lots of snow melting, getting out to enjoy walks and lunch in neighborhood outdoor seating, and lots of increased activity and staging of materials for the Third Avenue Bridge project. Photos that follow are the result of an afternoon’s walk.

The Third Avenue Bridge project features a historical image on fence beneath the bridge along Main Street.

On the Main Street side of the project, you can see where sections of the bridge deck have been removed and work is underway on the vertical section of the bridge pier.

New concrete surface is clearly visible on the base of one of the piers inside the horseshoe falls. This week upper levels of the sandbag water barrier around the base of the pier were removed and equipment that was positioned inside the barrier was lifted up to the bridge deck. The now-smooth and restored surface of the base of the pier is clearly visible. The platform on the downstream end of the pier base shows where work is underway to resurface that portion of the pier. Colored tarps cover new concrete surfaces while it cures.

A closer view of the pier above.

Heavy timbers were delivered to a staging area along the bike and pedestrian path on the downtown side of the river. What are they for? Stay tuned!

Father Hennepin Park near the Stone Arch Bridge was a bit soggy in spots.

These benches in Father Hennepin Park will have to remain empty for a while longer.

Wilde Cafe’s outdoor seating was popular for a quick snack or drink.