SOUTH 1ST STREET BASCULE BRIDGE OVER THE KINNICKINNIC RIVER REHABILITATION PROJECT 

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE-NOVEMBER 2018

The rehabilitation project is complete! Open to traffic on Friday, November 16th. 

PROJECT OVERVIEW

The rehabilitation work of the South 1st Street bascule Bridge over the Kinnickinnic River includes demolition of the bridge and related components. Improvements to the bridge will be made to the existing structural, electrical, and mechanical components. The work will address the City's safety ans operational concerns, meet all state and federal requirements, and maintain the unique, historically-significant aspect of the structure, which was built in 1957. The project also includes improvements to the roadway approach to the bridge and the bridge house, and aesthetic enhancements such as lighting on the bridge. Two solid surface lanes will be added to accommodate bicyclists. A navigable waterway will be maintained for the duration of the project. 

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING CONSTRUCTION

The City of Milwaukee works to minimize impact for businesses, residents and the traveling public during construction. 

Traffic Detour Route: The bridge will be closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic during the construction project. Southbound traffic will be directed west on West Maple Street to South 5th Street, south on South 5th Street to West Becher Street, and east on West Becher Street. Northbound traffic will be directed West on West Becher Street to South 4th Street, north on South 4th Street to West Maple Street and east on West Maple Street. 

Boat Access: Navigation and river traffic on the Kinnickinnic River will be open during the navigational season. Boaters should proceed with extra caution and be aware of any temporary signing or navigational traffic control as crews demolish, remove and replace bridge components, paint the steel, and stain the concrete. In coordination with the US Coast Guard, the bridge will be inoperable with both leaves in the down position during the non-navigational season-Winter 2017-2018. For bridge opening inquiries and information on maritime traffic, please contact the  24-hour Milwaukee Bridge Opening Hotline at (414) 286-2575 or Marine Radio Channel 16-KW4448.

Pedestrian Access: Although no pedestrians will be allowed to travel over the bridge during construction, pedestrians will be able to travel to those properties and businesses that abut the bridge during construction with the least amount of inconvenience. 

Construction Hours: Construction work is allowed from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

PROJECT CONTACTS