BISMARCK, ND - In anticipation of the upcoming travel season, the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) kicked off the 2023 construction season with a news conference today in Fargo to discuss upcoming projects and work zone safety. This year’s construction season consists of approximately $600 million in projects throughout North Dakota to enhance the state highway system.
Speakers included Matt Linneman, deputy director of engineering at NDDOT; Russ Hanson, executive vice president at Associated General Contractors of North Dakota; and Capt. Bryan Niewind with the North Dakota Highway Patrol.
"Safety is always our top priority,” said Linneman. “With travel season upon us, it's important that motorists remain vigilant and pay attention to the work zones. We want everyone to make it home safely at the end of the day."
Here are some tips for motorists to keep in mind during road construction season:
- Pay attention to signs and flaggers.
- Slow down and obey the posted speed limits.
- Stay alert and minimize distractions while driving.
- Be patient and expect delays.
"Infrastructure and road safety improvements are critical for our state,” said Capt. Niewind. “We urge motorists to exercise caution when traveling through work zones. We want to ensure the safety of drivers, pedestrians, and construction crews by being safe and respectful of the work zones."
Major road construction projects in the Bismarck area include:
- Interstate 94 Interchange (Exit 102) Eagles Nest reconstruction project
- Interstate 94 east and westbound micro-surfacing from the Kidder County line east to Dawson
- North Dakota Highway 6 widening, pipe and culvert extensions from Selfridge to BIA 7
- Bismarck Expressway mill and overlay, pavement markings from Washington Street to Main Avenue
- State Street pavement repair, and improvements to lighting, turn lanes and sidewalks
- North Dakota Highway 1804 from the Hazelton corner to University Drive - test project with multiple surface treatments
For more information about construction projects and road conditions throughout North Dakota, call 511 or visit the ND Roads map at travel.dot.nd.gov.