About The Project
Construction on the Medora Business Loop and City Section project began in fall 2024 and will occur in multiple phases until its projected completion in the summer of 2026. The infrastructure enhancements will improve safety, traffic flow, and pedestrian access along Pacific Avenue (I-94 Business Loop) between exits 24 and 27. The work is especially vital as Medora prepares for the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and the additional traffic it will bring to the city.
The NDDOT has worked closely with city officials, local business owners, and the public to develop a traffic solution that benefits the entire community. To minimize disruption during peak tourist season, work will not take place east of East River Road N (Park Entrance) and west of 6th Street from May 22 to September 3, 2025.
Key features of the project include:
- Roundabout installation to improve traffic flow at Pacific Avenue and Chateau Road with a new roundabout.
- Bridge widening to expand the Little Missouri River bridge including a left-turn lane and a shared-use path.
- Roadway upgrades including fresh pavement along Pacific Avenue from I-94 Exits 24 to 27, decorative lighting and landscaped medians in select areas.
- Pedestrian accessibility and ADA enhancements including new crosswalks and upgraded pedestrian ramps.
Project Updates
Construction Progress
Crews are focusing their efforts on city center improvements ahead of the busy tourist season. To minimize disruptions, work will not take place in the city center from May 22 to September 3, 2025. Construction on the new roundabout and Little Missouri River Bridge will continue throughout the summer.
- Medora Community Center Entrance: A new driveway is being built to better align with E. River Road S. The existing driveway will be removed once the new connection is complete.
- Chimney Park Entrance/ E. River Rd N: Crews are building a new Shared Use Path (SUP) at the Chimney Park entrance and installing curbs and gutters along the west side of E. River Road N.
- Little Missouri River Bridge & Roundabout: Work continues on the south side of the roundabout. Bridge girder placement is scheduled for mid-summer.
Traffic Impacts
- Pacific Avenue traffic will be rerouted through the two north-side lanes of the new roundabout, with traffic from Chateau Road connecting to Pacific Avenue on the east side. Pedestrians will be directed along the newly constructed north sidewalk.
- 6th Street is reduced to one-way outbound traffic with no entry from Pacific Avenue. Follow posted detour signs.
Project Goals
- Estimated Project Cost:
$28.4 Million
- Estimated Completion:
Spring 2026 or June 2026
Areas/Traffic Impacted
Project Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be a sign in the middle of the roundabout?
A “Welcome to Medora” sign will be installed as part of the project. The design and aesthetics were developed in consultation with members of the city council.
How long will the current temporary traffic control roadway be like it is?
The temporary roadway will remain in place until portions of the Little Missouri bridge are widened, and the roundabout is complete, which is expected by late summer or early fall. Lanes will stay 11 feet wide.
How will construction and traffic control impact summer events?
Crews will update pavement markings at the Chateau Road intersection and coordinate with the Billings County Sheriff’s Department for safe traffic control during the Medora Musical season. NDDOT will coordinate logistics with the contractor for the annual All Horse Flag Parade. Pile driving is expected to be completed by summer, minimizing construction noise.
Project Location
