Transportation

Duluth's Aerial Lift Bridge stuck following weekend blizzard

A large lift bridge built across a canal
The Aerial Lift Bridge in Duluth was temporarily stuck in the down position on Tuesday.
Andrew Krueger | MPR News

Blizzard conditions that rocked Duluth over the weekend took a toll on the city’s iconic Aerial Lift Bridge, which is now temporarily stuck in the down position.

The port's ship canal was pounded by waves and heavy ice formed on the bridge, halting lift operations that let ships pass into safe harbor.

Duluth officials haven't offered a timeline for when the bridge will return to operation. Deicing operations have begun.

The Aerial Lift Bridge in Duluth on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019.
The Aerial Lift Bridge in Duluth on Tuesday.
Andrew Krueger | MPR News

The port has another access to Lake Superior on the east end of Park Point, so shipping can continue through that area, although the passage is longer and requires navigation through the harbor canal along the Superior lakefront.