The Grant Marsh Bridge—Bismarck’s busiest river crossing—was shut down for several hours this week after a farm machinery accident. The closure left thousands of drivers stuck in long backups and highlighted just how vital this bridge is for daily commutes. With more traffic, ongoing repairs, and seasonal hazards, residents are now asking: how can you plan ahead to avoid delays?
The Grant Marsh Bridge connects north Bismarck and Mandan across the Missouri River, carrying more than 60,000 vehicles daily. It’s a lifeline for commuters, truckers, and families. While accidents like the recent farm equipment crash are rare, they remind locals of the bridge’s vulnerability. ND DOT has also flagged scheduled maintenance in the coming months, which could bring additional lane closures.
For locals who depend on the bridge, planning ahead can mean the difference between a smooth drive and sitting in traffic for an hour.
What Commuters Can Do
Alternate Routes: Memorial Bridge and Expressway Bridge remain the best detours during closures. If traveling north, the Lewis & Clark Bridge (I-94) offers another option.
Best Travel Times: ND DOT reports peak congestion between 7–9 AM and 4–6 PM. If possible, adjust travel outside those hours.
Traffic Apps: Download the ND DOT Travel Info Map or use the 511 app for real-time road closures, accidents, and maintenance alerts.
Upcoming Maintenance: Expect lane restrictions in late October as crews perform deck inspections.
When the crash happened, I was stuck for over an hour. Since then, I’ve started leaving 20 minutes early just in case. Having those apps makes a huge difference,” shared Rachel Meyer, a Bismarck resident who crosses the bridge for work.
The Grant Marsh Bridge is more than steel and concrete—it’s the daily heartbeat of Bismarck and Mandan. With smart planning, real-time alerts, and awareness of alternate routes, locals can reduce stress during inevitable slowdowns. As traffic grows and infrastructure ages, the community’s adaptability will be key to keeping Bismarck moving.
