Leaders from both sides of the river met last night (Monday) to discuss a fourth bridge linking Grand Forks and East Grand Forks. While the sides are in general agreement about the need for the river crossing they remain miles apart on the actual site selection.
A recent ad hoc committee looked at Elks Drive and 32nd Avenue South. Although the group did not take an official stand the analysis ranked the 32nd Avenue corridor higher.
Grand Forks Council President Dana Sande says he understands there are traffic concerns but 32nd is not a good fit for Grand Forks. “This is a political decision. This is not a mechanical data driven decision. If we want to get a bridge built we have to deal with the politics. The politics in my opinion are there has to be pain on both sides of the river. Right now there is only pain in Grand Forks and nothing but smooth sailing in East Grand Forks.”
East Grand Forks council member Brian Larson says it’s better to plan for the future now in order to address safety concerns head-on.
MPO Executive Director Stephanie Halford says as both cities grow the do nothing approach will only lead to more traffic and congestion down the road. “There are neighborhood and corridors where we will have to add lanes…change four way stops to street lights…and add roundabouts.”
Also on the table is a possible bridge at Merrifield Road. Traffic studies suggest a crossing that far south will serve as a bypass for trucks but do little to solve traffic issues within the two cities.
FOLLOW US FOR INSTANT UPDATES!
