NEWS SERIES:  "Building Bridges", MnDOT opens construction bids this Friday
by Jim Maurice, WJON.com

ST. CLOUD -- Slowly, but surely, we're getting closer to the actual demolition of the Highway 23 Bridge. 

St. Cloud City Engineer Steve Gaetz says the work to move the gas line off the current bridge, and under the river, has been slow but they are making progress.   He says they've made a pilot hole all the way under the river, and now they're working to enlarge the hole.  That work is expected to be finished in the next 2-3 weeks.

Gaetz says you should see some workers on the bridge starting this Monday. They'll begin the process of coating the bridge, so none of the paint will flake off and fall in the river, once the demolition begins. 

Also, Gaetz says this Friday is a key day for the MnDOT officials.   He says they'll open construction bids on Friday, which will give them a good idea of whether the project is going to cost what they're expecting it will.

As of right now, the actual demolition of the bridge is slated to begin on August 25th.

The new bridge is still on track to be open by November of next year.

AUDIO: Click play to hear an audio version of the story with extended comments.

Keep up to date on the Highway 23 bridge replacement project with our "Building Bridges" feature.