Drivers can once again cross the Sheyenne River using 32nd Avenue South in West Fargo.
The location has been under construction since June as crews worked to replace the bridge with box culverts.
The city project, which spans the Sheyenne River, has faced many obstacles stemming from the construction, which delayed the project and frustrated nearby residents.
The 32nd Avenue roadway over the river reopened to traffic during the weekend - more than a week ahead of the revised completion date of Dec. 1.
"It was a good feeling to have that project, for the most part, done," said West Fargo Mayor Rich Mattern. "I think it'll help traffic a lot."
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Still, the project itself is far from over.
Crews will come back in the spring to add another layer of asphalt on the roadway and complete the landscaping - which could last into the summer, said West Fargo Assistant City Engineer Brock Storrusten.
City officials also are in the process of resolving issues with earby homeowners and negotiating potential claims for additional payment with the contractor, Riley Bros. Construction Inc., based in Morris, Minn.
Fargo attorney Jonathan Garaas represents some of the 32nd Avenue residents who are considering legal action against West Fargo. He declined to comment Monday.
Storrusten said having the construction finished before December was "one of the best things that could have happened on this job."
"Everybody's happy that the roadway's open," Storrusten said.
Readers can reach Forum reporter Kristen Daum at (701) 241-5541
