BNSF Railroad
02/11/2022
Railway News: BNSF Railway
The U.S. Coast Guard recently announced the availability of a final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for BNSF Railway Company.proposed replacement of its bridge over the Missouri River between Bismarck and Mandan, North Dakota.
The EIA assesses the potential environmental effects of replacing the existing bridge or constructing a new bridge adjacent to the existing structure, such as implications for environmental control laws and impacts on flood plains, Bismarck Water Reservoir and the Missouri River Natural Area.
The 1,525 foot long bridge rises 70 feet above the river. The BNSF has proposed removing the existing 139-year-old structure, which is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, Coast Guard officials said in a Federal Register Notice. Due to the age and condition of the bridge, a 25 mph speed limit is in place.
The final EIA identifies the preferred alternative as construction of a new bridge with 200 foot spans and piers 20 feet upstream, and removal of the existing structure. The Coast Guard plans to issue a decision record on the matter on Nov. 28.