MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Overnight Closure Advances Final Phase of Port Riverwalk Pedestrian Bridge in Coon Rapids

COON RAPIDS, Minn. (April 24, 2026) An overnight road closure on Coon Rapids Boulevard early Friday morning allowed crews to complete a key phase of construction on a new regional pedestrian overpass, according to the City of Coon Rapids.

The closure occurred from 2:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. on April 24 between Zilla Street NW and Egret Boulevard NW, as crews poured the concrete deck and curbs for the bridge structure.

Immediate Construction Activity

City officials confirmed the work as part of the final construction phase of the Port Riverwalk pedestrian bridge project. Concrete placement is a critical step in forming the structural surface of the overpass and requires uninterrupted work conditions.

Project Overview

The pedestrian overpass is designed to provide a grade-separated crossing over Coon Rapids Boulevard, a high-traffic corridor that carries an estimated 31,000 vehicles per day. The bridge is intended to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists by eliminating the need to cross at street level.

Purpose and Connectivity

The structure will connect segments of the Coon Creek Regional Trail, improving access between Bunker Hills Regional Park and Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park. The project also strengthens connections to the regional trail network, including the Mississippi River Trail corridor.

City materials identify the overpass as part of the broader Port Riverwalk redevelopment area, which includes planned residential development and aims to improve walkability and connectivity within the district.

Timeline and Construction Status

Construction resumed in early April following a winter pause. With the concrete deck installation underway, the project remains on schedule for an anticipated opening to pedestrian traffic in June 2026, according to the city.

Traffic Advisory

While the overnight closure has been completed, motorists should expect intermittent daytime lane closures along Coon Rapids Boulevard through May as crews continue work on lighting, railings, and final safety features.

Funding

The project is funded through a combination of federal, state, and local sources. Funding includes regional transportation grants, state infrastructure support, and contributions from the City of Coon Rapids and Anoka County.

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