budgeted to cost $6.45 million (equivalent to $ in ). Demolition started in the center of the bridge, sawing the deck into pieces for disposal. Barges were positioned to catch concrete, preventing it from entering the river. Coffer dams were installed so the piers could be broken up and removed as well. This reconstruction was completed ahead of schedule, with the span reopening on November 22, 2005. The project completely replaced the bridge above the water line with wider traffic lanes, new bicycle lanes and wider sidewalks. Images of wild rice were sculpted into the concrete making up the bridge because "Menominee" in the local Menominee language means "wild rice". These sculptures were added in addition to the other decorative elements added to the new bridge including the railings and light poles. Construction of the Interstate Bridge coincided with a project to replace the span between Marinette and Stephenson Island, which was also built in 1929, and a refurbishment of US 41 through Marinette. The new Interstate Bridge was dedicated on December 3, 2005, in a ribbon-cutting ceremony that replicated the 1930 ceremony on the previous bridge. Guest speakers included the mayors of both cities, and the Wisconsin secretary of transportation. Catherine Anderson of Pembine, Wisconsin, served as a ribbon cutter while representatives of the local elementary schools held the ribbon. Anderson was a participant in the 1930 dedication ceremony and led the parade to the center of the bridge in a 1930 Ford. See also References External links Interstate Bridge Project photo essay U.S. Route 41 Buildings and structures in Menominee County, Michigan Buildings and structures in Marinette County, Wisconsin Transportation in Menominee County, Michigan Transportation in Marinette County, Wisconsin Road bridges in Michigan Road bridges in Wisconsin Bridges of the United States Numbered Highway System