Providing transportation design services to maintain safe bridge travel between the United States and Canada

Pigeon River International Bridge Improvements

Built in 1962 near the mouth of the Pigeon River and Lake Superior, the narrow, two-lane Pigeon River International Bridge is an essential connection for commerce and tourism, linking Duluth, Minnesota to Thunder Bay, Ontario, and points beyond. The 373-foot (114-metre), six-span steel stringer structure was in need of repair, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation engaged our team to improve this connection between (US) Trunk Highway 61 and (Canada) King’s Highway 61.

We drew upon our previous experience with the Baudette-Rainy River International Bridge Replacement to help address various US and Canadian requirements including environmental and navigation permits. Our bridge design team compiled repair recommendations and developed plans for repair, traffic and stormwater control, and work on the roadway approach.

Although located in a relatively remote area, the project required consultation with many stakeholders and government agencies on both sides of the river. Located within Grand Portage Reservation, our team worked closely with the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa to design a project that met Tribal requirements culturally, environmentally, and from a community perspective.

The design is on schedule for construction completion in 2024.