River Road In Bismarck Closure: What Drivers Need To Know

River Road Closure

A part of River Road in Bismarck is now closed.

How long will it be closed?

The River Road closure began today, Monday, February 23rd, 2026, and is expected to last about two weeks, according to a press release from the city of Bismarck, North Dakota.

Where will the road be closed?

The road will be closed near the BNSF railroad bridge for preparation work and overhead beam installation for the new railroad bridge. No official detour route will be provided; however, depending on where you are trying to go, you may be able to use Burnt Boat Drive and Fraine Barracks Road as an option.

The new BNSF railroad bridge over the Missouri River in Bismarck and Mandan is expected to be completed by late summer 2026. This will be welcome news for pleasure boaters and fishermen who must slow down in the construction zone. At the present time, the project is approximately 75% complete. Once the new structure is operational, the removal of the old bridge, which was built in 1883, is expected to take another year. You can expect further delays during the removal process of the old bridge.