US 71 over Bear River
FairKoochiching County, Minnesota · 12.4 MI SW of JCT TH 65 · Structure no. 91534
- Built
- 1977
- 48 years old
- Condition
- Fair
- inspected June 2023
- Type
- Culvert
- Concrete
- Length
- 24 ft
- 2 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 1,155
- 2022 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
US 71 over Bear River is a concrete culvert carrying US 71 over Bear River in Koochiching County, Minnesota. It was built in 1977, so it is 48 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 6 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 1,155 vehicles a day, roughly 33% of them trucks, projected to reach 810 by 2042. The structure is 24 ft (7.3 m) long. If it were closed, the detour would be 29.8 mi (48 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Channel and channel protection | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
| Culvert | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was US 71 over Bear River built?
It was built in 1977, making it 48 years old in 2025.
What condition is US 71 over Bear River 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 Bear River carry?
About 1,155 vehicles per day (2022 count), of which roughly 33% are trucks.
How long is US 71 over Bear River?
The structure is 24 ft (7.3 m) long with a longest span of 10 ft (3.1 m).
Who owns US 71 over Bear River?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.