BISMARCK, N.D. – Construction crews will break ground on a roundabout installation at the intersection of North Dakota Highway 24 and BIA 31 in Fort Yates Monday, July 29. The new traffic pattern will improve safety and increase intersection capacity.
Both motorists and pedestrians should be prepared for varied traffic changes, as the construction of the roundabout will occur in multiple phases. In the first phase of the project, speeds will be reduced to 25 mph, with flaggers present, and the current pedestrian pathway will be rerouted until a new path is installed. Once the roundabout pattern is established, vehicles will be guided through it.
The existing T-intersection has been the site of numerous traffic collisions where high speeds were a significant factor. Roundabouts are designed to slow traffic down at intersections and reduce conflicts by moving all traffic in the same direction. Additionally, vehicles are at slower speeds in roundabouts making them more aware of pedestrians and bicyclists.
How to safely navigate through a roundabout:
- Slow down when approaching a roundabout
- Pay attention to signage and pedestrians
- Look to the left and right when entering
- Find a safe gap and enter
- Don’t stop while in the roundabout and watch for your exit
- Use your right turn signal when exiting
The North Dakota Department of Transportation, contractors, and engineers are working with Standing Rock Sioux Tribe members to ensure all work on the construction site meets compliance requirements.
The roundabout is expected to be completed by November 9.
The North Dakota Department of Transportation would like to remind motorists to slow down and use caution throughout the work zone.
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.