Midtown Greenway bridge named in honor of former U.S. Rep. Sabo

The Midtown Greenway’s bridge over Hiawatha Avenue and the light-rail line in South Minneapolis is being named in honor of former U.S. Rep. Martin Olav Sabo. A ceremony, which is open to the public, takes place this Saturday.

Sabo was instrumental for helping gain funds for this bridge and many other transit projects in the Twin Cities. Everyone is invited to this family-friendly celebration. Cyclists are also encouraged to take part in a decorated bike parade, which will feature a number of prominent local bicyclists and transit supporters.

Martin Olav Sabo Bridge naming Ceremony
Sunday, May 18, 3 – 5 p.m. (program at 4 p.m.)
West entrance of bridge
28^th Street and Hiawatha Avenue
Parking available at marked local businesses by bridge

Photo: Tony Webster

The unique 2,200-foot cable-stayed bridge opened to bikers and pedestrians last fall. The bridge connects both ends of the 5.5-mile Midtown Greenway, which stretches from France Avenue on the west to the Mississippi River on the east. Its cable-stay design allows for a thin, low deck that fits below power lines and above the light-rail line and street traffic.

The Midtown Greenway is a joint venture of Hennepin County, the Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority, the State of Minnesota, the City of Minneapolis, the federal government and the community.

For more information on the bridge, go to www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/bicycles.

May 15, 2008