COOK COUNTY – Cook County’s first construction project of this season is underway at Lutsen Mountains. Work to replace the timber bridge just past the Eagle Ridge Check-in near the end of Highway (Hwy) 5, began this week.
Construction will occur Mondays through Fridays, and work will pause for the Lutsen 99er race, June 22-24. The new bridge will be wider for drivers and skiers and will feature ornamental lighting and a decorative finish. Lutsen Mountains Corporation funded the architectural elements of the project.
Businesses on the mountain will remain open and access will be maintained. The pedestrian bridge is open to the gondola and Papa Charlie’s, and Hwy 5 remains open. Superior Hiking Trail users should park in the gravel lot across from Caribou Highlands Lodge.
Cook County expects to open the new bridge in August. This project is funded by Cook County’s transportation sales tax. The total cost for the bridge construction is $823,000. Watch for updated information as the construction season continues through the summer.