Since the late 1800s, the existing BNSF railway bridge over the Missouri River that connects Bismarck and Mandan, North Dakota, has helped spur growth and support regional economies. But after 140 years of dutiful service, the bridge is approaching the end of its useful life and needs to be replaced to ensure that freight moves efficiently and safely through the region and that the Bismarck–Mandan area continues to thrive.
Keeping with our commitment to the state and local communities, BNSF Railway is building a new rail bridge adjacent to the existing bridge. The new single-track bridge will support heavier loads, which will better meet our customers’ needs. Keeping the future in mind, the bridge is designed to accommodate potential expansion of a second track to continue supporting efficient freight travel while limiting impact to the Missouri River ecosystem and local communities for generations to come.
Once the new bridge begins servicing trains, the existing structure will be removed.