BISMARCK, N.D. — North Dakota’s road construction season is moving along smoothly, according to the North Dakota Department of Transportation (DOT).

“We have wrapped up a fair number of projects already this year,” said Phil Murdoff, DOT State Construction Engineer. “Some of our larger projects still have some work left.”

Murdoff noted that crews across the state are making a concerted push as the season nears its end to complete as many projects as possible. However, some of the larger and more complex projects are expected to continue into next year.

“Some were planned to go into next year,” Murdoff said. “They're set up as multi-year projects. It's depending on the nature of the work, and the nature of the project.”

Current Budget and Project Scope

This year, the state BISMARCK, N.D. — North Dakota’s road construction season is moving along smoothly, according to the North Dakota Department of Transportation (DOT).

“We have wrapped up a fair number of projects already this year,” said Phil Murdoff, DOT State Construction Engineer. “Some of our larger projects still have some work left.”

Murdoff noted that crews across the state are making a concerted push as the season nears its end to complete as many projects as possible. However, some of the larger and more complex projects are expected to continue into next year.

“Some were planned to go into next year,” Murdoff said. “They're set up as multi-year projects. It's depending on the nature of the work, and the nature of the project.”

Current Budget and Project Scope

This year, the state allocated approximately $400 million for highway construction projects. Murdoff indicated that next year’s program could be just as large, if not slightly larger, reflecting continued investment in improving North Dakota’s transportation infrastructure.

The DOT’s projects this year have included:

• Highway resurfacing and repair on key state routes.
• Bridge maintenance and replacements to improve safety and longevity.
• Road widening and upgrades to accommodate increasing traffic and commercial transport.

“These improvements not only enhance safety for drivers but also support commerce, agriculture, and the growing economic needs of the state,” Murdoff said.

Multi-Year Projects

Several projects, including major highway expansions and bridge replacements, are structured as multi-year endeavors. These projects involve complex engineering work, permitting, and coordination with local municipalities, which can extend timelines.

“Our teams are focused on maintaining progress while ensuring safety and quality,” Murdoff added. “Even projects that extend into next year are carefully managed to minimize disruption to the traveling public.”

Looking Ahead

With an anticipated increase in the highway construction budget next year, North Dakota DOT is planning to continue its robust infrastructure improvements. Murdoff emphasized the importance of careful planning to keep projects on schedule and within budget while maximizing the impact of state transportation dollars.

“Each year we aim to enhance our roadways for safety, efficiency, and long-term durability,” Murdoff said. “We’re proud of the progress we’ve made and are committed to continuing that momentum into the next construction season.”

for drivers but also support commerce, agriculture, and the growing economic needs of the state,” Murdoff said.

Multi-Year Projects

Several projects, including major highway expansions and bridge replacements, are structured as multi-year endeavors. These projects involve complex engineering work, permitting, and coordination with local municipalities, which can extend timelines.

“Our teams are focused on maintaining progress while ensuring safety and quality,” Murdoff added. “Even projects that extend into next year are carefully managed to minimize disruption to the traveling public.”

Looking Ahead

With an anticipated increase in the highway construction budget next year, North Dakota DOT is planning to continue its robust infrastructure improvements. Murdoff emphasized the importance of careful planning to keep projects on schedule and within budget while maximizing the impact of state transportation dollars.

“Each year we aim to enhance our roadways for safety, efficiency, and long-term durability,” Murdoff said. “We’re proud of the progress we’ve made and are committed to continuing that momentum into the next construction season.”

Originally reported by Dave Thompson in Prairie Public News Room.