MnDOT: A Semi Hit A Pedestrian Bridge, Now It's Being Torn Down
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – MnDOT says it plans to tear down a pedestrian bridge near Saint Mary's University in Winona after it was struck by a semi-truck Monday afternoon.
The bridge, which spans Highway 14 and is part of the university campus, will be removed as soon as equipment can get to the scene, officials said.
"Safety is a paramount to us," said Steven Kirsch, a MnDOT engineer, in a press release. "We feel it is at risk of collapse and want to ensure that the public is kept safe until we can remove the bridge."
Highway 14 was closed Monday afternoon, and a detour was set up. The highway will re-open once the bridge is gone and all the debris is cleared.
MnDOT says the semi hit the underside of the bridge, damaging the beams.
Detours
For eastbound Highway 14: Take Winona County Road 23 north at Stockton, then go south on Highway 61 at Minnesota City.
For westbound Highway 14: Take Highway 61 north to Minnesota City, the go south on Winona County Road 23.