LaMoure County approves four-way stop at CR 62/CR 34; residents press for more than patching on CR 35

LaMoure County commissioners voted Aug. 6 to change the intersection of County Road 62 and County Road 34 to a four-way stop following recommendations from engineering consultants. Commissioner Robert Flath moved to implement the change with public advertising; Commissioner Bruce Klein seconded and the motion passed unanimously.

Highway Superintendent Darrick Nitschke presented the recommendation—attributed in the minutes to Bryan of KLJ—to install a four-way stop and an advance "stop ahead" sign, then evaluate traffic after about a year to consider installing flashing lights on the gravel approach while leaving the paved road with right-of-way.

Nitschke also presented and the board approved a utility permit for a grain bin site on CR 35. After the votes, residents Melissa and Raymond Godlewski told the board they are concerned about medical professionals reaching individuals in Dickey County during emergencies if roads such as CR 35 remain unpaved. Nitschke said CR 35 will be patched this year; no paving schedule or funding plan was presented in the minutes.

Nitschke reported the road department completed 18 miles of chip sealing and fog sealing, including fog sealing in Kulm where chip seal was applied last year. He also said the county received a bridge inspection with load rating certification from the N.D. Department of Transportation that will require a local match.

The county will advertise the intersection change before implementation and continue routine pavement and bridge work as funding allows.