Columbia Road Overpass repair bill climbs

Planned repairs to the Columbia Road overpass could top $10.2 million dollars.

The Grand Forks council gave preliminary approval last night (Monday) to project plans and specs.
A recent Inspection of the overpass identified additional work beyond the original scope of repairs. Assistant City Engineer David Kuharenko says round one addresses the surface of the road and the finger joints on both ends of the overpass.

Kaharenko says they hope to keep two lanes of the bridge open this summer – but next year could be a different story.  “Next year because of the long lead time on the bearings we would probably be looking for a full closure in 2025.  We will try to keep that to the summer so to not impact UND.”

The city has secured $6.7 million dollars in federal funding. Staff has requested additional cost sharing from the North Dakota DOT — as well as supplemental grant funding.

Bids are scheduled to be opened in June.
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A planned end of the year bash near the UND campus has been given a preliminary thumbs down by the Grand Forks council. The Greek organizations Sigma Chi and Sigma Nu want to fence off their front yards on the 2800 block of University Avenue for a music filled event on May 3rd. The number of students attending the event would be capped at 1,000. A couple of council members say they received complaints about trash and noise during past events. Attendees would bring their own food and drink. A letter from UND police also expressed concerns with the application. The council will take one last look at the event next week.