Sambatek is proud to announce that Bridge No. 82537, spanning Browns Creek and the Browns Creek State Trail in Washington County, has been selected as a winner of the 2025 MnDOT–AGC Bridge Construction Award in the $2 million–$6 million construction cost category. The award recognizes outstanding achievement in bridge construction across Minnesota, highlighting projects that demonstrate innovation, complexity, craftsmanship, and timely delivery. This project, delivered by Washington County, Kimley-Horn, Sambatek, and contractor, Kraemer North America, exemplifies modern engineering while maintaining environmental sensitivity and visual harmony with its surroundings. Award recipients will be honored at the AGC Honors Event on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the Renaissance Hotel in Minneapolis.
Award-Winning Innovations and Overcoming Complex Site Conditions
Bridge 82537 showcases efficient engineering, including deepening the superstructure to maximize vertical clearance and reduce long-term maintenance needs, repurposing excavated rock as riprap to promote sustainability and cost efficiency, and using concrete wire sawing for pier removal to avoid in-channel work. Zavier Smith, Sambatek’s Project Inspector, said, “From the construction techniques to the attention to detail, this project was executed with precision and care. Maintaining trail access and minimizing environmental impacts were top priorities, and the team did an outstanding job achieving both.” Located adjacent to the Browns Creek State Trail, the project faced steep terrain, limited access, and nearby homes. Kraemer North American designed a custom beam launcher to safely place 161-foot girders without disturbing the creek valley.
On-Time Delivery and Exceptional Craftsmanship
The team completed the project in a compressed construction schedule using A+B Contract Time Methodology. Bridge 82537 was praised for its consistent rail alignment, coloration, formwork, clean transitions, and meticulous finishing. Its design blends seamlessly into the scenic Browns Creek corridor, making it a functional, durable, and visually appealing asset to the community. This project exemplifies modern bridge construction, combining technical excellence with environmental sensitivity, aesthetic quality, and strong collaboration between Washington County, Kimley-Horn, Sambatek, and Kraemer North America. Sambatek’s Tony Schrempp, PE, Construction Services Director, stated, “This project was a success because of each project member working collaboratively towards the goal of achieving this project in a fast, safe, and high-quality manner. The Kraemer tradesmen deserve an extra shoutout for their commitment and care throughout the entire bridge construction regarding safety, quality, communication, and environmental sensitivity.”
About Sambatek
Sambatek is a dynamic professional services firm specializing in engineering, surveying, planning, and environmental solutions for transportation, land development, renewable energy, and municipal projects. Founded in 1966, Sambatek partners with public and private clients nationwide and is known for its collaborative approach and high-quality work. With over 100 professionals, we’re committed to integrity, innovation, and enhancing the communities where we live, work, and play. With offices in Minnetonka, MN, and Raleigh, NC, Sambatek delivers responsive, practical solutions from concept to completion. Learn more at Sambatek.com.