Final Phase of Port Riverwalk Pedestrian Bridge Construction Underway in Coon Rapids

COON RAPIDS, MN

Construction on the Port Riverwalk Pedestrian Bridge resumed Thursday, April 9, 2026, entering its final phase as crews complete a project designed to carry pedestrians and cyclists over Coon Rapids Boulevard, a six-lane roadway with an estimated 31,000 vehicles per day.

The bridge, located northwest of Zilla Street between Egret Boulevard and Avocet Street, is part of a broader infrastructure effort to improve safety and connectivity along the Coon Creek Regional Trail.

Project Scope and Timeline

The $6.5 million project resumed after a winter pause, following installation of the main steel truss in December 2025. Current work is focused on final structural and safety components:

• April 9, 2026: Construction resumes for spring
• April through May:
  • Concrete deck and curb installation
  • Installation of railings, pedestrian lighting, and safety features
  • Placement of a “City of Coon Rapids” nameplate
  • Site restoration and landscaping
• Late May 2026: Substantial completion of structural work
• June 2026: Anticipated opening to the public

Safety and Connectivity

The bridge is designed to eliminate at-grade crossings along a high-traffic corridor and provide a continuous trail connection. It links the north and south segments of the Coon Creek Regional Trail, which connects Bunker Hills Regional Park and Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, and provides access to the Mississippi River Trail corridor located less than one mile to the south.

City officials have identified the corridor as a key barrier to pedestrian and bicycle movement prior to the project.

Construction History and Delays

The project encountered a setback in October 2025 when the prefabricated bridge truss was damaged during transport after striking an overpass along Highway 65. The structure underwent repairs and engineering review before being successfully installed during an overnight closure of Coon Rapids Boulevard in December 2025.

Traffic Impacts

During the final construction phase, motorists can expect periodic daytime lane closures along Coon Rapids Boulevard as crews complete deck work and install lighting and safety systems.

If additional full closures are required, detours would utilize:

• Hanson Boulevard
• Northdale Boulevard (north of Highway 10)
• Foley Boulevard

Funding and Development Context

The project is funded through a combination of federal Regional Solicitation funds, state grants, and contributions from the City of Coon Rapids and Anoka County.

The pedestrian bridge also serves as a central element of the Port Riverwalk redevelopment, which includes new residential construction and is intended to support a more walkable, connected area.

Expected Opening

With final construction activities underway, the bridge remains on schedule for a June 2026 public opening, at which point it will provide a grade-separated crossing for trail users and expand access across one of the city’s busiest roadways.

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