2019

The US Highway 85 Watford City to I-94 Project covers approximately 62 miles in western North Dakota, extending from the Watford City Bypass to the I-94 interchange near Belfield, and is a critical segment of the state’s long-term plan to expand US-85 to a four-lane divided highway between I-94 and US-2. The project upgrades the existing two-lane roadway largely along its current alignment to improve freight mobility, safety, and reliability, while minimizing environmental and community impacts. Key elements include capacity and intersection improvements, access management, and the replacement or rehabilitation of the historic Long X Bridge over the Little Missouri River to address clearance restrictions and recurring freight detours. The Final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision (February 2019) selected a preferred alternative with flexible design features, wildlife crossings, and mitigation measures, supporting energy development, agriculture, emergency services, and regional economic growth across Stark, Billings, and McKenzie Counties.