EGF to release South side bridge RFP

Without discussion the East Grand Forks council agreed last night (Tuesday) to hire a consultant through an R-F-P to further work on a new south end bridge. The target location is 32nd Avenue South on the Grand Forks side.

The RFP says with the possibility of additional federal or state money available for infrastructure projects time is of the essence. It goes on to say after developing a planned approach to the project the goal is to move the environmental and design phases forward in order to have a shelf/shovel ready project to bid.

While East Grand Forks has secured land on the Minnesota side of the river for a bridge approach there has been pushback from several Grand Forks council member on the site selection.

The deadline for firms to respond to the RFP is June 30th.

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The move prompted Grand Forks Council President Dana Sande to ponder out loud the closure of the Point Bridge to reduce traffic passing by the Phoenix Elementary School and those living in the immediate area.  At the same time Sande says efforts should focus on a river crossing at Merrifield Road.