State transportation officials say they will begin repairing the bridge between Winona and Wisconsin by July 15.

Crews will work seven days a week to complete the repairs on the span over the Mississippi River. MnDOT engineer Steven Kirsch says that means heavy truck traffic could resume on the bridge "well before the end of the summer."

The bridge was closed for 11 days after inspectors found corroded gusset plates. Heavy trucks and pedestrians remain barred from the bridge until repairs are completed.

Five to seven gusset plates needing the most attention will be repaired first, but the project could later involve reinforcing up to 32 gussets. The repairs will cost up to $3 million.

Meanwhile, MnDOT plans to hire consultants this fall to begin plans for a new Interstate Bridge.