US 71 over Big Fork River (s Chan)
FairKoochiching County, Minnesota · 0.3 MI N of JCT TH 6 · Structure no. 36012
- Built
- 1979
- 46 years old
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected June 2023
- Type
- Stringer/Multi-beam or Girder
- Steel
- Length
- 125 ft
- 1 main span
- Daily traffic
- 1,292
- 2022 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US 71 over Big Fork River (s Chan) is a steel stringer/multi-beam or girder carrying US 71 over Big Fork River (s Chan) in Koochiching County, Minnesota. It was built in 1979, so it is 46 years old, older than the Minnesota average of 38.5 years.
The most recent inspection reported to the Federal Highway Administration rates it in fair condition with a lowest component rating of 5 out of 9. The lowest-rated primary component is rated 5 or 6. Minor deterioration is present but the structure is sound.
It carries about 1,292 vehicles a day, roughly 31% of them trucks, projected to reach 1,100 by 2042. The structure is 125 ft (38.1 m) long and 64 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 98.2 mi (158 km).
Location
Open in Google MapsCondition and inspection
The lowest-rated primary component is rated 5 or 6. Minor deterioration is present but the structure is sound.
| Component | Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Deck | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Superstructure | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Substructure | 5 Fair | All primary structural elements are sound but may have minor section loss, cracking, spalling or scour. |
| Channel and channel protection | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was US 71 over Big Fork River (s Chan) built?
It was built in 1979, making it 46 years old in 2025.
What condition is US 71 over Big Fork River (s Chan) in?
The National Bridge Inventory rates it in fair condition. The lowest-rated primary component is rated 5 or 6. Minor deterioration is present but the structure is sound. The last reported inspection was in June 2023.
How much traffic does US 71 over Big Fork River (s Chan) carry?
About 1,292 vehicles per day (2022 count), of which roughly 31% are trucks.
How long is US 71 over Big Fork River (s Chan)?
The structure is 125 ft (38.1 m) long with a longest span of 120 ft (36.6 m) and a deck 64 ft wide.
Who owns US 71 over Big Fork River (s Chan)?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.