BISMARCK — Construction has started on a 70,000-square-foot expansion at the North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum for a new Military Gallery, amphitheater and infrastructure enhancements.

The State Historical Society of North Dakota, the North Dakota National Guard and their respective foundations announced on Thursday, Aug. 7, the construction taking place on State Capitol grounds in Bismarck.

“We are grateful for the public’s patience and support during this transformative time,” said Bill Peterson, State Historical Society director, in a news release. “This will help fulfill the Military Gallery’s mission to honor, educate and inspire the public.”

According to information from the State Historical Society, Kraus-Anderson Construction is installing safety fencing prohibiting public access to much of the southeast quadrant of the Capitol grounds. This will impact use of the Capitol trail system. The Capitol Mall and west segment of the arboretum trail continue to be open as walking routes. Wayfinding information will be installed on the fences soon. The southeast parking lots will be closed to the public and will serve as the headquarters and staging areas during construction.

The N.D. Heritage Center parking lot, Capitol Mall and Capitol visitor parking lot will remain open to the public.

Tree removal will begin soon to accommodate site work. Trees being removed include aging aspens and American elms showing signs of disease. Disease resistant trees will be planted to replace the trees removed, supporting continued preservation on the grounds.

The first impact inside the State Museum is the narrowing of the corridor leading to the James River Cafe. Public access will be maintained throughout.