John A. Blatnik Bridge

The John A. Blatnik Bridge is a through arch bridge spanning the Saint Louis River between Duluth, Minnesota and Superior, Wisconsin. Its tall structure allows oceangoing vessels to navigate beneath it on their way to inland ports.

The bridge opened in December 1961 and was renamed in 1971 to honor Congressman John Blatnik, who advocated for the Saint Lawrence Seaway. This waterway project connected the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, making a high bridge crossing over the river essential for shipping.

The bridge stands as a primary connection point between Minnesota and Wisconsin, serving as a vital transportation link for 33,000 daily commuters.

Heavy vehicles weighing more than 40 tons cannot cross this bridge and must use alternate routes. Keep this restriction in mind if you are driving a truck or oversized vehicle through the region.

A replacement project will build a new bridge featuring a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists. This addition will allow people to walk or bike across the river between the two states for the first time.

Location: Wisconsin

Inception: 1961

Official opening: 1961

GPS coordinates: 46.74910,-92.10130

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:57