A rail bridge connecting South Dakota and Iowa partially collapsed due to severe flooding, prompting a controlled demolition of one side. The bridge, which spanned the Big Sioux River from North Sioux City, South Dakota, to Sioux City, Iowa, was submerged following heavy rains in June that led to historic river levels in multiple states.
The blast on the South Dakota side of the bridge, owned by BNSF Railway, took place under controlled conditions to cut the span into sections for safe removal. Officials closed nearby roads and established safety perimeters during the demolition process, urging the public to avoid the area.
Kendall Sloan, BNSF communications director, explained that the decision to conduct a controlled blast was made due to the condition of the collapsed spans, ensuring a secure removal operation. Crews will utilize a crane to clear the fallen sections over the next week, with a subsequent demolition planned for the Iowa side in September.
Amy McBeth, public affairs director for BNSF, mentioned that the demolition was split into two phases to accommodate the heavy equipment required near the river on both sides. Plans for a new bridge are already in progress, with an estimated nine-month timeline for the completion of the rebuilding process.