SAINT PAUL, Minn. (Nov.9, 2021) – Mississippi River Boulevard, between Ford Parkway and Magoffin Avenue, will reopen to bicyclists, pedestrians and vehicles beginning Nov. 10. This portion of the road and trail closed May 10, 2021 for construction of the Mississippi River Boulevard Crossing project at Highland Bridge.
Construction of the bridge on Mississippi River Boulevard, connecting Highland Bridge and Hidden Falls Regional Park, will continue through spring 2022. This is part of the first phase of the project, which will provide a safe and direct connection for bicyclists and pedestrians to ride or walk along an open water creek channel. On the south side of Mississippi River Boulevard, MRB Crossing users will connect to a new plaza space overlooking the falls and the creek valley.
The bridge will reconnect and rejuvenate Hidden Falls Creek, which was formerly underground, sending a steady and predictable flow of clean water into the park and the Mississippi River. Previously, hard surfaces sent untreated runoff downstream, destabilizing the underground creek and sending untreated water into the Mississippi River. Highland Bridge’s central stormwater system will reduce discharge from the site to Hidden Falls by 98% and remove debris and sediment from the water.
Funding is currently being sought for the second phase of this project, which will connect the plaza space on the southeast side of Mississippi River Boulevard to the Mississippi River Trail. Raised board walk ramps or stair options are currently being explored to connect the new plaza overlook to Hidden Falls Regional Park and the Mississippi River below.
Construction project timelines are subject to change. This project aligns with the City of Saint Paul 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Highland Bridge is a 122-acre mixed-use master development located along the Mississippi River in the Highland Park neighborhood of Saint Paul, Minn. The development will include four public parks and approximately 3,800 housing units, 150,000 square feet of retail and 265,000 square feet of office space. Upon completion, Highland Bridge will be the most sustainable community in the region. For more information about Highland Bridge, visit highlandbridge.com.
About Ryan Companies
Founded in 1938, Ryan Companies offers comprehensive commercial real estate services as a national developer, architect, capital investment consultant, builder and real estate manager with a focus on bringing lasting value to its customers and the communities in which it works. Ryan’s market depth includes retail, industrial, healthcare, multifamily housing and senior living. Ryan’s development and corporate build-to-suit work spans a wide range of product types including office, mixed-use, hospitality and mission critical facilities. Ryan has over 1,800 employees in 16 offices and has completed projects in nearly every state. For more information, visit ryancompanies.com.
