Agassiz Recreational Trail Bridge

Technical Description:

• Width: 12-ft.
• Span: 170-ft.
• Style: Connector^®
• Finish: Weathering Steel
• Decking: Douglas fir, plywood

After years of planning and fund raising, a new bridge over the Sand Hill River is open to recreational traffic. The new Continental ^® bridge was made possible through the fund raising efforts of the Sand Hill Snowcruisers, a local snowmobile club, and a grant from the Minnesota Department of National Resources. Norman County Soil and Water Conservation District was also instrumental in helping secure the grant.

With the installation of the new bridge, snowmobilers and outdoor enthusiasts alike can safely cross over the scenic Sand Hill River, which is 40’ below the bridge. Club officials are excited about the new bridge, which replaces an abandoned railroad bridge. They believe its installation will make the Agassiz Recreation Trail System more appealing and have a positive year round impact on the local economy, something that is important to this rural community of 900 people.

Site preparation was handled by Ferguson Brodher Excavating, Inc. The 170-ft. x 12-ft. bridge was delivered to the site in two sections. This allowed the contractor to use a smaller crane when moving the bridge sections into position for splicing. The splicing was done in mid-air. The crane positioned one section and then drove around to the other side of the river to set the final piece. This phase of the project was accomplished in just two days.

Technical Description:

• Width: 12-ft.
• Span: 170-ft.
• Style: Connector^®
• Finish: Weathering Steel
• Decking: Douglas fir, plywood