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Commission backs Bridgeport viaduct to remove at‑grade rail conflicts; NDOT estimates ~$16M
Summary
NDOT presented a Bridgeport viaduct project to eliminate at‑grade conflicts on US 26/92, coordinate with power and rail stakeholders, and provide pedestrian access; the commission voted to recommend the project (Resolution 2025‑4). NDOT estimated construction as early as 2028 with a preliminary cost of about $16 million.
Brandy Neiman presented the Bridgeport viaduct project, which would construct a relocated alignment of US 26 and US 92 to remove an at‑grade Union Pacific crossing and address emergency responder delays created by rail switching operations. The planned work covers less than a mile but includes multiple cross sections, pedestrian accommodations on the north side of the relocated highway and retaining walls to reduce impacts on adjacent properties.
Neiman told the commission NDOT is coordinating with the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) because transmission lines and an electrical substation adjacent to the project will require adjustments; she said NDOT has been working with WAPA on utility relocation agreements. She also said NDOT plans to leave segments of the existing roadway in place to provide access to businesses and the recreation area and will repair those segments prior to relinquishment to the city.
NDOT held a May 13 public hearing (about 69 people attended) and received comments about access and business impacts; staff are reviewing comments and preparing responses. Neiman said the final environmental assessment will be submitted to the Federal Highway Administration later this year, and that right‑of‑way acquisition and final design are anticipated into 2027 with construction as early as 2028. NDOT presented a preliminary cost estimate of approximately $16,000,000, to be funded by federal, state and BNSF contributions.
Staff read Resolution No. 2025‑4, which requested the commission recommend to the governor approval of NDOT’s location, design and use of access control for the Bridgeport viaduct project; the commission recorded affirmative votes and the recommendation passed.
