Update on June 21st: the bridge has re-opened.
MnDOT has released the following in formation regarding the closures of Highway 48 in Pine County and Highway 23 in Carlton County:
"Duluth, Minn. – Highway 23 in Carlton County and Highway 48 in Pine County remain closed due to damage and high water levels.
Highway 23 at the south fork of the Nemadji River suffered extensive damage. MnDOT engineers are still assessing the damage and determining when the highway may reopen. It will likely remain closed for at least several weeks.
Motorists are encouraged to use Interstate 35 as an alternate route. Many local roads are also closed due to high water and cannot be used as a detour route until the water recedes and any damage is repaired.
Highway 48 remains closed at the St. Croix River in Pine County due to high water. MnDOT engineers believe damage is minimal on this section and may be able to reopen the highway within a couple of days.
Barricades have been placed to ensure public safety. When barricades are in place motorists must not access the closed area. The Minnesota State Patrol has issued tickets to people trying to access the closed area near Highway 48. They will continue to monitor the area.
MnDOT has posted changeable message signs to inform motorists of the closed areas.
Motorists are encouraged to check 511mn.org for the latest road closure information."
(photo courtesy Pine County Sheriff's Office)