December 4, 2024

First Bridge Over the Stormwater Diversion Channel Opens to Traffic

FARGO, ND (December 4, 2024) — Red River Valley Alliance is excited to announce the opening of the County Road 4/31 crossing over the stormwater diversion channel, a portion of the larger, FM Area Diversion project. This exciting milestone for Cass County motorists signifies the first bridge built to carry
traffic over the channel. The bridge opened to traffic today, December 4, 2024.

Located east of Argusville, North Dakota, construction on the CR 4/31 bridge began in September 2023 and is part of the realignment of County Roads 4 and 31. Now that the crossing is open to traffic, construction to remove the remaining portions of CR 4 within the channel will begin immediately.

Motorists will notice the pedestrian and bike path on the side of the bridge will be closed until final construction finishes can be done in the spring. This will not have an impact on vehicle traffic.

One of the features used in bridge construction along the stormwater diversion channel is lightweight geofoam blocks, which are used in the approaches to the bridges in place of an earthen embankment.

“Geofoam blocks have a high compressive resistance rate which makes it perfect to support oncoming traffic and the repeated stress and compression that takes place on structures like bridges,” according to Geofoam International, LLC.

Using geofoam at the approaches of the bridge provides multiple benefits that are cost effective and more optimal than traditional fill material such as soil, concrete or rock. It also decreases construction timelines.

Work on the bridge was completed by ASN Constructors and subcontractor Industrial Builders, Inc. The redesigned roadways associated with this crossing were completed by ASN Constructors and subcontractor Park Construction Co.

For more information about the FM Area Diversion project, visit www.fmdiversion.gov.