Main Avenue Bridge over the Red River

A combination of geometric, structural, and flooding issues led to the Minnesota and North Dakota DOTs replacing the Main Avenue Bridge over the Red River, which serves as a gateway to the cities of Moorhead and Fargo. SRF prepared a bridge concept development report, including hydraulic analysis, bridge type study, environmental inventory and urban design assessment. As the project moved forward, SRF designed the new bridge, retaining walls, and new roadway approaches to meet the new higher bridge profile. We also developed plans for 3rd Street in Moorhead, which was reconstructed as a riverfront parkway on a new alignment beneath the east end span of the bridge. SRF also designed riverfront plazas and amenities for both Moorhead and Fargo. Urban aesthetic treatments were also an important part of the design and included gateway towers, ornamental railings, lighting and historic information plaques. Bridgehead plazas created pedestrian connections to the riverfront, and a unique mid-span plaza overlook of the Red River provides opportunities for viewing and interpretation of the river corridor.