The federal government has awarded Green Bay a $34 million grant to help renovate the historic Luxemburg Swing Bridge, a key crossing of the Fox River for freight rail. The grant, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will cover the majority of the $42.5 million project cost, with the Fox Valley and Lake Superior Rail System (FOXY) contributing the remaining 20 percent.
Why the bridge matters
Built in 1923, the Luxemburg Swing Bridge sits just north of downtown Green Bay, south of the Leo Frigo Bridge. Operated by FOXY, the bridge moves roughly 25,000 rail carloads each year, supporting both regional freight and maritime commerce on the Fox River. Over time, the bridge’s mechanical, structural, and electrical systems have deteriorated, and rising prices for steel, concrete, and other materials have driven the project’s budget up from an initial $6.8 million estimate in 2023.
Project details and timeline
FOXY will fund 20 percent of the renovation costs, while the federal grant pays the rest. The agency will also assume responsibility for ongoing operation and maintenance once the work is complete. The upgrades will eliminate frequent service interruptions and allow the bridge to accommodate rail cars weighing up to 286,000 pounds. Construction is slated to begin in the spring and is expected to take two years. Throughout the renovation, the bridge will remain operational, minimizing disruption to freight traffic.
State and local support
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin praised the funding, noting that Wisconsin businesses rely on reliable rail and water routes to move “Made in Wisconsin” products nationwide. “When aging infrastructure causes delays and disruptions, it hurts our businesses, costs them time and money, and makes it harder for them to compete,” Baldwin said. “That’s why I’m proud to bring home this investment to repair and modernize this critical bridge, keep folks safe, and make sure Wisconsin businesses have the reliable infrastructure they need to grow and succeed.”
Future bridge projects
FOXY is also advancing engineering and design work on two additional Fox River crossings: one between Allouez and Green Bay near the Georgia‑Pacific mill, and another on the east end of the flats in Appleton. Lucht indicated that FOXY intends to seek further federal grants to help finance those projects as well.
Impact on the community
The renovation promises to strengthen Green Bay’s transportation network, supporting local manufacturers, agricultural shippers, and the broader regional economy. By modernizing a nearly century‑old structure, the project safeguards jobs tied to rail operations and helps keep freight costs competitive for Wisconsin businesses and consumers.
Residents can look forward to a more reliable bridge that will serve the city’s freight needs for decades, while the continued operation during construction ensures that local businesses experience minimal interruption.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
