The full picture · 2 sources

BNSF Accelerates Historic Bridge Demolition as River Road Trail Remains Closed

Updated Oct 17, 1:10 PM CT. Every fact below links to the source that reported it.

What the primary sources show

BNSF Railway is accelerating demolition of the historic 1883 bridge connecting Bismarck to Mandan across the Missouri River. [Bismarck Tribune] [Bismarck Source]
The company plans to begin working double shifts next week to expedite the project. [Bismarck Source]
BNSF expects the demolition to conclude by the middle of 2027. [Bismarck Source]
A new $100 million bridge opened recently, with first trains crossing on Wednesday. [Bismarck Source]
The River Road walking trail remains closed through winter during demolition work. [Bismarck Tribune] [Bismarck Source]
The 1883 bridge predates North Dakota statehood and served as a vital river crossing for more than a century. [Bismarck Source]

What specific safety hazards did commissioners identify regarding the River Road trail closure?
When will the River Road trail reopen after the winter closure, or has permanent relocation been planned?
What is the estimated total cost of the demolition project?

Bismarck Tribune: Reports commissioners' characterization of the trail closure as a safety hazard while BNSF accelerates demolition efforts. Read it → · Paywall
Bismarck Source: Provides comprehensive operational details including the double-shift strategy, middle of 2027 completion target, new bridge opening, and historical background of the 1883 structure. Read it →

701 News writes these summaries from the sources above and checks every sentence against them. Read the originals for the full reporting. Corrections