Planning continues on major construction upgrades

The Grand Forks council received an update (Monday) on three major transportation projects coming down the road – all carry a hefty price-tag.

Planning continues on the 42^nd Street underpass at DeMers Avenue.  Assistant City Engineer David Kaharenko says in the coming months the council will be asked to narrow down design plans for a project that will cost between $45 and $55 million dollars.  “The estimate from our consultant on that one is approximately 20 trains a day and each one is 6-7 minutes.  So we are looking at around about two hours of delays a day.”

Another large scale project undergoing an Environmental Document stage is the proposed I-29 Interchange at 47^th Avenue South.  The estimated cost is around $53 million dollars.  Kaharenko says even with federal and state funding the city’s portion isn’t cheap.  “We also have to take into consideration the city funded connecting roadways.  You can’t have an interchange that connects to nowhere.”

Also on the drawing board the proposed intercity bridge at Elks or 32^nd Avenue South at a cost of $32 to $41 million dollars.  A joint council meeting between Grand Forks and East Grand Forks is anticipated in May to further discuss a potential river crossing location.

Kaharenko says as with all projects funding will determine construction timelines.

Picture:  42nd St underpass designs/GF graphic