Enjoy Your Last Chance To Cross The Stone Arch Bridge In A While

MINNEAPOLIS — A beautiful weather weekend will mark the last time pedestrians and bicyclists can cross the historic Stone Arch Bridge for two years.

Minnesota Department of Transportation crews will close half of the bridge at a time. The St. Anthony Main side of the bridge will close starting Monday at 5 a.m.

"Two more days in my spot, and then no more," busker Clawhammer Mike said.

Locals and tourists filled the bridge Saturday as it peaked for the first 80 degree day of the year at MSP.

"How lucky are we to get to step out here right before it gets going to construction under this lovely weather?" CJ Johnson said.

The bridge connects two sides of Minneapolis over the Mississippi River. Built in the 1880s, the structure needs repairs to the mortar, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Rocks and stones will also be replaced and repaired as needed. MnDOT writes, the project's goal is to preserve the bridge for the future.

"I'm in full agreement with it, it just sucks for me," Clawhammer Mike said. "This is both my therapy spot and my place to make a little dough."

He vows to return to his favorite spot when construction is over. "Creature of habit so I'm sure I'll be back in two years," he said.

Until then, detour routes can be found here.

SOURCE: KARE 11