Peace Garden News

Traffic will shift to a new bridge at Interstate 94 Exit 161 in Bismarck on the morning of Wednesday, September 3. The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) announced that the old bridge will be closed to all traffic as part of ongoing work on the interchange project.

Overnight on Tuesday, September 2, crews will set up new traffic control equipment for a temporary pattern. Westbound I-94 drivers using Centennial Road or Bismarck Expressway will now access I-94 West by turning onto a new northwest on-ramp and exit using a new temporary off-ramp. For eastbound I-94, drivers will use a new southwest off-ramp since the previous loop off-ramp is now closed for construction. Entry to I-94 East will remain via the existing southeast on-ramp.

Centennial Road and Bismarck Expressway traffic across the new bridge will be reduced to one lane in each direction. Pedestrians can use sidewalks on the new bridge, with barriers guiding foot traffic safely from Miriam Avenue.

The old bridge is scheduled for demolition later in September after being blocked off with barricades. Additional changes to traffic patterns are expected as construction progresses. Motorists are urged to follow posted signs and stay alert while traveling through the work zone.

According to NDDOT, “The I-94 Exit 161 Interchange project, which began in spring 2024, will continue through summer 2026. The project is designed to improve traffic flow by eliminating two left-turn movements and adding right-turn loops for more efficient travel. NDDOT appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as this essential infrastructure project moves forward.”