Coon Creek Regional Trail Pedestrian Bridge Taking Shape Over Coon Rapids Boulevard

Coon Creek Regional Trail Pedestrian Bridge Taking Shape Over Coon Rapids Boulevard

COON RAPIDS, Minn. — Construction is underway on the long-anticipated pedestrian bridge connecting the Coon Creek Regional Trail across Coon Rapids Boulevard. The project, awarded to Ames Construction in August 2024, includes building bridge abutment piers, approach spans, and retaining walls.

Current activity is focused on erecting temporary supports and completing retaining walls on the north side of the roadway. The bridge will provide a safe, grade-separated crossing for pedestrians and cyclists, enhancing connectivity between neighborhoods and regional trail systems. Completion is expected by the end of October 2025.

City officials say the bridge represents a significant investment in both recreation and public safety, reducing conflicts between trail users and motorists along one of the city’s busiest corridors, which sees approximately 31,000 vehicles daily.

The bridge is part of a broader effort to improve walkability and accessibility in Coon Rapids, integrating with regional trail networks, including the Mississippi River Trail and nearby Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park. The project, with a total budget of $4.6–$4.8 million, is funded through a combination of federal, state, city, county, and regional grants.

Construction milestones achieved so far include completion of the south-side abutment piers and ongoing work on approach spans and retaining walls. City officials say the project not only enhances safety but also supports surrounding development, including planned residential and recreational improvements near the bridge site.

“This bridge is a key piece of infrastructure for our community,” a city spokesperson said. “It will provide a safe, accessible connection for cyclists and pedestrians, linking neighborhoods to parks and regional trail systems while improving overall public safety along Coon Rapids Boulevard.”

MinneapoliMedia