Midland Cities Swap Landmarks in April Fools' Prank

Midland, Texas agrees to exchange its Garfield Street roundabout with Midland, Michigan's iconic Tridge bridge.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:22pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As part of an elaborate April Fools' Day joke, the cities of Midland, Texas and Midland, Michigan announced they would be swapping iconic landmarks - with Midland, Texas agreeing to send its Garfield Street roundabout north to Michigan, while Midland, Michigan would in turn install its famous Tridge bridge over the roundabout's former location.

Why it matters

The prank highlights the playful rivalry and friendly competition between the two Midland cities, as well as their willingness to engage in lighthearted stunts to entertain their residents and social media followers on April Fools' Day.

The details

According to the cities' social media posts, the Garfield Street roundabout in Midland, Texas would be transported to Midland, Michigan, where it would replace the Tridge - a three-pronged bridge over the Tittabawassee River. In its place, the Tridge would be installed over the former roundabout location in Texas, with four pool floats placed underneath to recreate the river effect.

  • The prank was announced on April 1, 2026 - April Fools' Day.

The players

City of Midland, Texas

The city that agreed to swap its Garfield Street roundabout with Midland, Michigan's Tridge bridge as part of the April Fools' prank.

City of Midland, Michigan

The city that agreed to send its iconic Tridge bridge to Midland, Texas in exchange for the Garfield Street roundabout as part of the April Fools' prank.

Lori Blong

The mayor of Midland, Texas who jokingly declined to provide a completion date for the landmark swap.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“While we are saddened to see the beloved Garfield Road roundabout head north, we take comfort knowing it will continue its legacy of keeping drivers alert, humble and occasionally circling just one more time for good measure.”

— City of Midland

The takeaway

The landmark swap between the two Midland cities demonstrates the power of social media and the creative ways municipalities can engage with their residents and each other through lighthearted April Fools' Day pranks.