About

The US Highway 85 project encompasses approximately 62 miles of roadway in Stark, Billings, and McKenzie counties. The project begins at the Interstate 94 (I-94) interchange and extends north to the Watford City Bypass (McKenzie County Road 30). The project includes expanding US 85 from a two-lane highway to a four-lane highway, utilizing the existing US 85 alignment. 

This project specifically will construct a multi-lane roundabout at the intersection with North Dakota Highway 200 in McKenzie County.

Current Status

The final design and right-of-way acquisition for this project are complete and are ready for bidding. Utility relocation work is ongoing and will be completed in 2026. The project bid date is to be determined. The estimated construction cost is $13 million.

Final Environmental Impact Statement/Record of Decision

A Final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision (FEIS/ROD) was completed in February 2019 that analyzed different alternatives and feasibility of construction of widening the highway in this area. The FEIS/ROD documented the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) decision on the US 85 Project, whose goal was to maintain and follow the existing US 85 alignment, utilizing the existing infrastructure to minimize potential impacts on environmental, socioeconomic, and human-made resources, to the maximum extent practicable. This document is available for viewing at: www.dot.nd.gov/highway85

Location

Geographical map showing the section of US Highway 85 from ND 200/US 85 Intersection. Indicates RP markers and 4-Lane Divided Highway Widening to the west.
Geographical map showing the section of US Highway 85 from ND 200/US 85 Intersection. Indicates RP markers and 4-Lane Divided Highway Widening to the west.

Contacts

Company & Title
NDDOT Design Division
Email
ghartl@nd.gov
Name
Garrett Hartl

Alternative Contact

Company & Title
Consultant Project Manager Apex Engineering Group
Email
troy.ripplinger@ApexEngGroup.com
Name
Troy Ripplinger, PE