ROSEVILLE, Minn. (WCCO) – The closure of Highway 61 at the Hastings Bridge over the Mississippi River had been postponed.

According to the Department of Transportation, crews and now going to float-in the main span of the bridge during the week of September 17.

The postponement is necessary for crews to make certain that railings and welds on the device, which guide the new bridge structure toward its abutments, are tested to specification before moving forward with the historic move.

Once the rescheduled date is in place, the highway will be closed for up to 72 hours as crews move the main span of the new Hwy 61 Hastings Bridge into place, weather permitting.

Motorists will be advised to follow the signed detour using I-494, Hwy 52 and Hwy 55.

In addition, there will be other local travel restrictions that will occur. The lock and Dam Road near downtown Hastings will close at the boat launch. Access to and parking at the Jaycee Park will remain available during this time.

And the pedestrian and bicycle path will close between Lock and Dam No. 2 and downtown Hastings.

Access to local businesses and residences on both sides of the bridge will not be affected.

For more information, call the Hastings Bridge Project Hotline at 651-775-5244 or visit the project’s website.