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The Sorlie Memorial Bridge is a historic bridge spanning the Red River of the North, connecting Grand Forks, North Dakota, with East Grand Forks, Minnesota.

Visual Characteristics

The bridge is a steel truss structure with a deck approximately 10 meters wide. It features a distinctive green painted finish. The main span consists of two Pratt trusses, with approach spans constructed of I-beams. The total length of the bridge is 274 meters.

Location & Access Logistics

The Sorlie Memorial Bridge is located approximately 1.5 kilometers east of the Grand Forks city center. Access is via Demers Avenue on the North Dakota side and Gateway Drive on the Minnesota side. Ample street parking is available on both approaches to the bridge. Public transport options are limited; the closest bus stops are several blocks away from either end of the bridge.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Sorlie Memorial Bridge began in 1917 and was completed in 1919. It was named in honor of Governor Arthur G. Sorlie. The bridge was built to replace an earlier wooden structure and to facilitate commerce and transportation between the two cities. The Red River of the North is a glacial river, formed by the draining of glacial Lake Agassiz.

Key Highlights & Activities

Pedestrian and bicycle access is permitted across the bridge. Observation of the Red River and surrounding river valley is possible from the bridge deck. Fishing is permitted from the riverbanks adjacent to the bridge approaches.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The bridge itself has no dedicated amenities. Restrooms and food vendors are located in the adjacent city centers of Grand Forks and East Grand Forks. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the area.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination of the bridge structure. The months of May through October offer the most pleasant weather conditions for outdoor activities. The Red River's water levels can vary significantly, but this does not directly impact bridge access.

Facts & Legends

During periods of high water, the bridge has been known to be submerged. A local anecdote suggests that during the Great Flood of 1997, the bridge was the only crossing point remaining open for a period, though this is unverified.

Nearby Landmarks

• North Dakota Museum of Art (1.2km West)
• Ralph Engelstad Arena (1.8km Southwest)
• Gander Mountain (0.8km West)
• Columbia Park (0.6km East)
• Downtown East Grand Forks (0.3km East)