Highway 61 at Hastings Bridge closing Sept. 22

Editor's note: The following is a press release from the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Motorists traveling near Hastings will encounter a closure both directions of Highway 61 at the Mississippi River beginning at 6 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 22.

The highway will remain closed for up to 72 hours as crews float the Main Span of the new Hwy 61 Hastings Bridge into place. The closure will be weather dependent.

Motorists are advised to follow the signed detour using I-494, Hwy 52 and Hwy 55.

No other closures are scheduled at this point. A DNR project will limit parking and access near Jaycee Park.

Beginning 6 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 22 all through-river traffic between Lock and Dam No. 2 and the Rail Bridge east of downtown Hastings will be suspended.

Through-river traffic and Hwy 61 are scheduled to reopen late Monday, Sept. 24.

As is expected for the entire project, access to local businesses and residences on both sides of the bridge will not be affected.

Travelers and residents with questions are encouraged to call the Hastings Bridge Project Hotline at 651-775-5244 or visit the project’s website at www.dot.state.mn.us/hastingsbridge.