Coon Rapids Dam Renovation

The Coon Rapids dam is located on Mississippi River between Brooklyn Park and Anoka Minnesota. The dam was originally built in 1914 by Northern States Power for hydro-power generation. It was operated in that capacity until 1966. In 1969 it was donated to the Three River Park District in 1979. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources had identified the dam as a potential barrier to stop the migration of an invasive species Asian carp. The dam also acts a barrier to many other fish species.

Stanley Consultants were hired to perform the design work and construction engineering. They were to come up with a plan to include improvements that will keep the structural integrity for a minimum of 50 years. On top of the bridge there is a 12 foot wide walkway to enjoy the great scenery and the roar of the water. The walkway also serves as a bike path over the river. On each side of the walkway there is nearly a quarter mile of galvanized railing.

A life-cycle cost estimate was performed during the preliminary design report. They wanted project life of 50 years was assumed for the analysis period. The hot-dip galvanized railing was chosen for its ability to sustain the life of the project. Using hot-dip galvanized railing will provide long term corrosion over the life of the project. With the harsh Minnesota winters and its extremely low temperatures and large amounts of snow and the mist from the water flowing over the dam, hot-dip galvanizing will provide the best protection for the bridge railing.