When the 12th Avenue North toll bridge was constructed, it was contentious. Residents of neighborhoods on both sides of the river opposed the project. Eventually, the powers that be acquiesced to public opinion and agreed to make the bridge a toll bridge to keep traffic levels low and minimize impact on adjoining neighborhoods.

In my personal opinion, this action contributed to a long, slow death for North Moorhead.

Now, the private operator is asking for a bailout, and threatening to close the bridge if they don't get it.

It is time to fix this problem.

1. Buy the bridge from the owner.
2. Raise the bridge significantly to eliminate flooding trouble.
3. Eliminate the toll.

With the Moorhead/Dilworth area blowing up on that side of the bridge (Walmart would be a LOT more accessible to North Fargo residents), it makes more sense now than ever to fix this problem. Just like the flood diversion, all it takes is for our local politicians to grow a pair and face down the opposition of a very vocal minority.