Mankato installs 153-year-old Kern Bridge as pedestrian crossing

Key points

• Installation occurred on August 24, 2026, with crews rigging the bridge at 7 a.m. and completing placement by noon.
• The bridge connects Land of Memories Park and Sibley Park over the Blue Earth River.
• It is the only remaining bowstring arch through-truss bridge in Minnesota and the oldest intact example in the country.
• The project cost approximately $10.5 million, with 75% funded by state and federal grants.
• The bridge was originally built in 1873 and removed from the Le Sueur River in February 2020.

Background

The Kern Bridge, also known as the Yaeger Bridge, was constructed by John Mahowald and the Wrought Iron Bridge Company. It served as a roadway for wagons, animals, and cars until traffic ceased in the early 1900s. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980, it was saved from demolition by the Minnesota Department of Transportation and Blue Earth County. After being offered to other jurisdictions without takers, it was stored and restored for reuse in Mankato.

How outlets are covering it

MPR News and the Mankato Free Press emphasize the bridge's historical significance and the successful completion of the installation, noting the public exclusion for safety and the provision of a livestream. KEYC News Now highlights the specific timeline of the August 24 installation and the bridge's status as Minnesota's oldest standing roadway truss bridge. All sources agree on the bridge's new purpose as a pedestrian and bicycle link between the two parks, though MPR and the Free Press provide more detail on the funding breakdown and the remaining work needed for public opening.

Why it matters

This project demonstrates a successful model for preserving historic infrastructure by repurposing it for modern community use. It prevents the loss of a unique national historic landmark while enhancing local recreational infrastructure. The significant grant funding involved highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in maintaining cultural heritage assets.

What to watch

Crews will install decking and railings over the coming months. The bridge is expected to open to the public later in the fall of 2026 for pedestrian and bicycle traffic.