42nd Street & DeMers Avenue Underpass

The intersection of 42nd Street and DeMers Avenue has seen significant challenges over the years with increased movement through the area. This two-year project will divide roadway and rail traffic at the crossing with the construction of an underpass. Crews will lower 42nd Street beneath two new bridges, one for DeMers Avenue and one for BNSF rail, eliminating train delays for a smoother, more reliable route.

Completion is expected by November 2027, with minor follow-up work in spring 2028 that is not expected to impact traffic.

Key benefits include:

• Safer travel by removing vehicle and train conflicts
• Reduced delays on 42nd Street
• Improved traffic flow with updated roadway connections
• Stormwater improvements that support local water quality

The project also includes planned updates to portions of Ray Richards Golf Course under a separate contract.

Project Updates

• Construction is underway, with crews starting site preparation, utility work, and traffic control setup. Work is also underway on a temporary bypass south of DeMers Avenue, including signals and pedestrian paths, to maintain east-west traffic as work progresses.
• Through summer 2026, crews will complete watermain work, build a temporary rail line (shoofly), and begin bridge excavation.
• Late 2026 into early 2027, major bridge construction will take place, including pile driving, piers, and girder installation.

Traffic Impacts

• 42nd Street and DeMers Avenue is reduced from two driving lanes to one for construction of the temporary bypass.
• Beginning in late June, 42nd Street is expected to close between James Ray Drive and 43rd Street through the end of the construction season. Traffic will detour via Washington Street, and DeMers Avenue will shift to the temporary bypass. Closures will shift throughout the project as construction phases change. 42nd Street is scheduled to fully reopen in September 2027 and DeMers Avenue in June 2027.
• Several nearby projects may also impact traffic this construction season.

For additional information and a webcam view of the project site, visit the City of Grand Forks road construction page. A webcam feed is also available via the UND Atmospheric Sciences YouTube channel.

Document Library

• May 12 Public Information Meeting Recorded Presentation
• May 12 Public Information Meeting Boards
• Be Stormwater Smart: Know What Happens When It Rains