Custom Fabrication for Department of Transportation Bridge Project
Owner: Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT)
General Contractor: Kraemer North America
Product: Custom Steel Bridge Pedestals
Minnesota Department of Transportation Bridge Reconstruction
As part of the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) reconstruction of the John Ireland Boulevard Bridge in St. Paul, Minnesota, StellarCraft fabricated 26 custom decorative steel pedestal assemblies for the bridge reconstruction project.
The pedestal assemblies were fabricated from 3/8-inch A36 steel plate. Each pedestal weighed approximately 765 pounds. Of the 26 assemblies, 14 incorporated cast-steel ball tops, while the remaining 12 were fabricated without the ball component.
StellarCraft managed the fabrication process with a focus on:
- Heavy plate fabrication of 3/8-inch A36 steel
- Precision fit-up and welding of individual components
- Integration of cast-steel components into fabricated assemblies
- Dimensional consistency across 26 individual units
- Coordination of multi-stage architectural finishing
- Galvanizing and powder coating for exterior durability and appearance
Maintaining Consistency Across Department of Transportation Bridge
The Minnesota Department of Transportation reconstruction project of the John Ireland Boulevard Bridge required the project team to balance infrastructure improvements with the architectural character of an important civic setting. For StellarCraft, the project showcases capabilities that extend beyond basic metal fabrication. Our project management and fabrication team was able to develop a repeatable process for the heavy plate work, precision welding, custom assembly, cast-component integration, and architectural finishing required for this project.
Because the pedestals would be installed as permanent exterior elements of the bridge, the assemblies required a durable finishing system compatible with their architectural application. Each pedestal was galvanized and powder coated to ensure long term derablity and prevent corrosion.
These fabrication controls allowed StellarCraft to take a custom architectural design and reproduce it across 26 substantial steel assemblies with the consistency expected of a high-visibility architectural installation.
Twin Cities Marathon Finish to Celebrate the Bridge Opening
We are pleased with how the final product turned out and are excited to see the new bridge be used as the finish line for the 2026 Twin Cities Marathon race occurring on October 4th.
