Veterans Memorial Bridge over the Missouri River
Bismarck, ND
The Veterans Memorial Bridge connects the cities of Bismarck and Mandan. In 1804-05 Lewis and Clark wintered within sight of the bridge location. The bridge crosses their Trail as well as the parks that line the river’s banks. The new bridge replaces a 1928 steel truss bridge named in honor of the area’s World War I veterans. The community asked for a “distinctive” new bridge, one with unique and memorable features, which would continue that tradition.
The new bridge is supported by steel box girders. The Y-shaped piers provide memorable shapes that are recognizable from a distance. The girders appear balanced on the arms of the Y, giving the bridge a light and graceful appearance. The new Memorial Bridge is dedicated to all veterans. The design incorporates plazas at each bridge entrance with eleven spires symbolizing the Armistice of World War I. Overlooks are provided at each of the five piers, one for each of the Armed Services. The overlooks include commemorative medallions, flags (on public holidays) and indirect lighting that makes each overlook a lighted oasis at night. The bridge was dedicated and opened to traffic on Veterans Day, 2008.
"A bridge like this is about more than getting from place to place; a bridge like this is about making the trip memorable, and about celebrating the beauty of this place."