Torgerson, owner of Lund’s Landing, a resort along Lake Sakakawea, said others agree with him that such a bridge is needed to make travel easier and save time but it also would be an economic asset to the area.

Torgerson said he saw a poll question in The Minot Daily News recently asking what is the most interesting bridge in North Dakota. When he read it, he said it was interesting because he was in a meeting with Harold Hamm. Hamm is founder of Continental Resources, one of the largest independent oil companies in the nation and one of the largest oil companies in North Dakota.

“Harold said to me, ‘We need a bridge built across Lake Sakakawea between Williston and New Town,” Torgerson said, adding, “Harold Hamm loves North Dakota.”

Hamm told The Minot Daily News, “When my good friend, Jim Torgerson, raised the need for a bridge across Lake Sakakawea, it struck me as an idea that makes a great deal of sense. Water levels are as low as people can remember, the region has grown, and the practical need for better access between these communities is greater now than ever. This is something people in the area have recognized for many years, and I believe it deserves serious consideration as an important infrastructure project.

“A bridge like this could strengthen connectivity, support economic activity and help sustain the long-term vitality of the region. In terms of financing, I would think this could be approached much like other significant road and infrastructure projects, with potential federal participation along with support from the state.”

Torgerson cited a location for a bridge from about 14 miles south of Tioga or about 30 miles east of Williston in Williams County and across Lake Sakakawea to McKenzie County, about 35 or 40 miles west of New Town. He said it would be basically the same route as a ferry that traveled across the lake some years ago.

Torgerson said he’s talked to at least 50 residents of Williams County and McKenzie County about a bridge.

“There’s a lot of interest in the general public about a better route for people coming and going from Williams to McKenzie or vice versa,” Torgerson said. “For example, if you live in Tioga or run an oil company in Tioga, and you have to send workers to McKenzie County, you’re faced with driving to Williston and taking an hour and a half to get to Watford City or to go to New Town and take another hour and a half. We’d like to see a bridge.”

Mike Nowatzki, a spokesman for Gov. Kelly Armstrong, said they always appreciate ideas and input from the public but there is no bridge project under consideration or study at this time.