Franklin Avenue Bridge

Franklin Avenue Bridge is a concrete arch bridge crossing the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, constructed using reinforced concrete building techniques. The main span extends across the river while the structure serves vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians with separate lanes for each.

The structure was completed in 1923 and set a world record at that time for its engineering achievement. It replaced an older metal truss bridge that had served the crossing since 1889.

The bridge carries the name of a Norwegian-American engineer whose work shaped Minneapolis infrastructure, and this connection remains part of the city's memory. People cross here daily as part of their routine journeys through the metropolis.

The crossing offers separated pathways for different types of travelers with clear markings for each group. It helps to prepare for weather conditions since the passage spans open water and exposure is a factor.

The new bridge was built around the existing 1889 metal structure in stages, which kept operating throughout construction. This approach allowed river crossing traffic to continue without interruption during the entire building process.

Location: Minneapolis

Inception: 1923

Made from material: concrete

GPS coordinates: 44.96390,-93.22280

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:44