About The Project
Construction on the Medora Business Loop and City Section project began in fall 2024 and will continue through 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 vital as Medora prepares for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library opening 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.
Key features of the project include:
- Roundabout installation to improve traffic flow at Pacific Avenue and Chateau Road.
- 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.
- Chateau Road reconstruction, including a shared-use path, new signage, a center turn lane and other roadway upgrades.
Project Updates
Construction Progress
To minimize disruptions, work will not take place in the city center from May 22 to September 3, 2025. Construction on the new roundabout, Little Missouri River Bridge, and Pacific Avenue widening just east of the bridge will continue throughout the summer.
- Little Missouri Bridge to E. River Rd N: Crews are widening Pacific Avenue between the bridge and East River Rd N for future connection to the widened bridge. A new Shared Use Path (SUP) will be constructed, the Chimney Park entrance will be reconstructed, along with new 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.
- Chateau Road reconstruction prep work is underway, including fencing, erosion control, stump removal, and top-soil stripping.
- 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 are directed along the newly constructed north sidewalk.
- Chateau Road has minimal traffic impacts, as work remains off the main roadway. Expect future detours to the musical parking lot, Medora Cemetery, Chateau de Mores Historic site.
Project Goals
- Estimated Project Cost:
$28.4 Million
- Estimated Completion:
Spring/Summer 2026
Areas/Traffic Impacted
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.