The first structural span of the Mississippi River between Anoka and Champlin was built at this location in 1884. The original bridge consisted of four steel spans with a wooden deck measuring wide. One of the spans could rotate, allowing for the passage of steamboats and other large vessels. The bridge's wood decking limited traffic capacity, and individuals received a fine of $10 if they crossed at a pace faster than a brisk walk. After the advent of the automobile at the turn of the 20th century, the bridge became inadequate. The U.S. War Department determined that in the event of a national crisis, it would prove too narrow and weak to support military vehicles, and would impede the swift flow of river traffic. In 1926 engineers wrote proposals for a modern structure to replace the outdated and insufficient original. Until a new bridge could be completed, the Minnesota Highway Department set a definite load restriction of six tons and posted signs to that effect. But the signage, heavy fines, and even threats of criminal prosecution failed to deter drivers with excessive loads from inflicting damage on the bridge.
Construction
During the 1920s concrete gained popularity as a material for bridge construction since it was cheaper than stone yet similar in its compressive strength. Designers of the new Anoka–Champlin Bridge used an arch form and encased steel to compensate for concrete's low tensile strength. Since it did not require painting, as steel did, the bridge was considered relatively low maintenance. Construction workers built the Anoka–Champlin Bridge's concrete arches using falsework—scaffolds and wooden forms used to pour concrete. This method proved time consuming, labor-intensive, and expensive. In the 1950s, prestressed concrete girders replaced this type of bridge construction.
Later history
By 1991 the bridge had deteriorated to the point where it needed to be renovated. A temporary bridge was built alongside the current bridge, and the Anoka–Champlin Bridge was torn down to the piers and arches. A new, wider deck and support system were built. In order to keep its historic status, the ornamental concrete railing and other parts were duplicated from the old form. The bridge was reopened in 1998, and the temporary bridge was removed.
