Media inquiries for the City of Minneapolis can be directed to: (612) 673-2786

Related Links

Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT)

Minnesota Helps

Twin Cities Red Cross

Maps

Map of Affected Roads (PDF)

Detail Map Around 35W Bridge (PDF)

Environmental Checks Near the Site

Given the location of the bridge collapse and the amount of debris that must be removed from the Mississippi River and adjacent shores, the City of Minneapolis and others are concerned about the potential risk to the environment.

The City is monitoring the efforts of the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, the two agencies that are conducting tests to determine whether air and water conditions are being affected by the collapse.

Air and water testing sites (PDF Map)

Water Quality

The Mississippi Watershed Management Organization is taking water samples regularly from the Mississippi River downstream from the collapsed bridge. Those samples are being compared to baseline samples taken at two upstream sites. Tests on the samples look for metals, oils, grease, PCBs, suspended solids and other pollutants.

For more information on the Mississippi River sampling activities and test results, visit the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization.

Air quality

Air monitoring is being conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to assess the potential hazard to surrounding neighborhoods by dust and other airborne particles that may be released during debris removal. Tests check for levels of volatile organic compounds, asbestos, lead and silica.

The PCA plans to provide regular air monitoring reports to Minneapolis.

Updates

Updates on the environmental monitoring will be made at each regular meeting of the City Council Committee on Health, Energy and the Environment. You can find out about upcoming Committee meetings and get the agenda by visiting the Health, Energy, and the Environment Web page.