North Dakota advances Highway 85 improvements amid discussions with South Dakota and Montana

In a recent meeting of the North Dakota House Appropriations Committee, discussions centered around critical highway projects, particularly the enhancement of Highway 85 and Highway 2. These highways are vital for regional connectivity, linking North Dakota to South Dakota and Montana, and their improvement is essential for accommodating increasing traffic, including both commercial and tourist vehicles.

Representative Brandenburg raised concerns about potential funding losses for the Highway 85 project, which stretches from Interstate 94 to the South Dakota border. The committee explored whether neighboring states are considering similar upgrades to their highway segments. While there is an acknowledgment of traffic demands, particularly from South Dakota, the specifics of Montana's plans remain uncertain.

The conversation highlighted the ongoing efforts to coordinate highway improvements across state lines. Representative Kempek noted that South Dakota has already initiated enhancements around Rapid City, which could influence traffic flow into North Dakota. The Theodore Roosevelt Expressway organization is actively promoting these upgrades, emphasizing the need for a cohesive approach to transportation that spans from Mexico to Canada.

A significant point of discussion was the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) studies required for highway enhancements. The committee indicated that these studies would not commence until funding is secured for the final leg of Highway 85, which could delay progress. The urgency of these studies is underscored by the high volume of traffic—over two million vehicles annually—traveling through the region, which includes a mix of tourists and commercial transport.

The committee's discussions reflect a broader recognition of the importance of infrastructure improvements for economic growth and tourism. As North Dakota seeks to enhance its highways, the collaboration with neighboring states will be crucial in ensuring that these projects align and effectively address the transportation needs of the region.

Looking ahead, the committee's next steps will involve securing funding and initiating the necessary studies to move forward with these vital highway projects. The outcome of these discussions will significantly impact not only transportation efficiency but also the economic vitality of North Dakota and its neighboring states.