I-35W Bridge Reconstruction  

On August 1, 2007, the heart of Minnesota was shaken to its core. The I-35W Mississippi River bridge, a vital artery connecting communities, collapsed during the evening rush hour, leaving devastation in its wake. In the aftermath, there was an urgent need—not only to rebuild a bridge but also to restore confidence, heal a city, and set a new standard for what teamwork, innovation, and leadership could achieve when faced with a catastrophic infrastructure failure. The project that followed would become a defining chapter for the state, the project partners, and the legacy of WSB. 

A Project Unlike Any Other 

Every project develops its own culture, but the I-35W bridge reconstruction fostered an environment few had ever experienced and even fewer would see again. From the outset, it was clear this was a project of extraordinary magnitude. The stakes were high, the eyes of the nation were watching, and the timeline was relentless. But what set this project apart wasn’t just the engineering feats or the compressed schedule—it was the collective spirit of those involved. 

“The I-35W bridge project was the quintessential example of what a project can be when everyone works together,” said Mike Rief, Sr. Vice President of Construction Services. “Culture, collaboration, partnership—I’ve never seen anything like it in my career, and I don’t know that I’ll ever see it again.” 

The culture that emerged was built on shared purpose and mutual respect. Team members set aside their own interests because they recognized the project’s significance, not just for themselves, but for the entire country.  

Setting a New “Measuring Stick” 

The urgency to rebuild was matched only by the collective team’s commitment to excellence. The I-35W bridge project wasn’t just about restoring what was lost; it was about setting a new standard for the industry and infrastructure across the nation. That “measuring stick” became a rallying point that is still referenced today—quality, teamwork, pace of reconstruction, and the type of design were not just goals, but promises to the community. 

“We created a benchmark for the nation’s infrastructure. Not just in Minnesota, but for the country,” said Jon Chiglo, WSB’s Chief Operating Officer and the MnDOT I-35W Bridge Rebuild Project Manager. “The systems and standards that were developed are still informing national conversations about infrastructure safety, preparedness, and modernization today, nearly 20 years later.” 

The bridge was up and running in just over a year—a feat that garnered national and international attention. The project demonstrated that when the right people, purpose, and culture come together, seemingly impossible deadlines can be met without sacrificing quality or safety. 

Atmosphere and Intensity 

The atmosphere during the most intense phases of the project was electric—charged with a sense of urgency, camaraderie, and pride. But there was a greater sense of purpose and commitment to delivering this project—one that shined a spotlight on just how important infrastructure is to our daily lives. 

For WSB, the I-35W bridge project was a defining chapter in our history and reputation. In 2007, WSB was still a relatively small firm—far from the established presence of today—yet was entrusted with a project of immense complexity and visibility. Despite a modest staff, the team approached every challenge with an unwavering commitment to quality. Rigorous standards were set for every phase—from initial design reviews to on-site construction oversight—ensuring that innovative solutions were never achieved at the expense of safety or durability. 

What began as a small team of fewer than five staff members rapidly expanded to over 50, representing nearly 30% of WSB’s entire workforce. From entry-level engineers and environmental scientists to the CEO, individuals at every level and stage of their careers eagerly seized the opportunity to contribute. The collective enthusiasm and commitment transformed the project into a unifying endeavor that brought out the very best in everyone involved. It fostered a ‘can-do’ culture and attitude that remains at WSB today. 

The team’s ability to deliver on such high expectations, while upholding the strictest benchmarks for excellence, distinguished WSB in the eyes of our partners and clients. It marked the leap from a promising upstart to a trusted leader, proving that a smaller firm, united and determined, could deliver the nation’s most challenging infrastructure with unparalleled precision and care. 

The Enduring Impact 

Today, the I-35W bridge stands as more than just a physical structure—it is a lasting benchmark for what can be accomplished when vision, determination, and camaraderie come together. Yet, its legacy is forever linked to the memory of those who lost their lives in the tragedy that prompted its reconstruction. Their stories remain at the heart of the bridge’s purpose, serving as a solemn reminder of the importance of safety, community, and resilience. The culture of collaboration that defined the project continues to inspire teams at WSB, honoring both progress and remembrance. 

There has never been a project quite like this, and perhaps there will never be again. The legacy—built on partnership, innovation, and unwavering commitment—is now woven into the fabric of Minnesota and the entire industry, echoing both the triumphs achieved and the lives remembered.