A tragic incident at the intersection of Highway 2 and Airport Road has prompted local authorities to advocate for urgent safety improvements. In July 2024, a collision claimed the life of a six-year-old girl when a Dodge Ram pickup truck rear-ended a vehicle that was stopped at a traffic signal. The driver of the pickup, Travis Bell, was found to be driving under the influence and has since pleaded guilty to charges related to the crash. He faces a prison sentence of three to six years.
The incident has brought renewed attention to the intersection, known for its troubling history, which includes multiple serious injuries and fatalities over the years. Notably, this crash is not an isolated event; the intersection has recorded over 40 crashes in recent years, with two resulting in fatalities. In light of these statistics, local government bodies are mobilizing to initiate safety measures.
Terry Bjerke, a member of the Grand Forks County Commission, presented data in December highlighting the effectiveness of two-lane roundabouts in reducing accidents. According to his findings, these roundabouts have been shown to decrease minor accidents by 35% and major accidents by 70%. The proposed solution for the intersection includes a $12 million project to construct a two-lane roundabout, a more feasible alternative compared to the significantly more expensive diamond interchange, which would cost approximately $100 million.
The push for change has gained momentum, with various local entities, including the City Council and the Airport Authority, expressing their support. County Commissioner Mark Rustad has been particularly vocal about the need for action, stating shortly after the July crash that he is “100% motivated” to leverage his influence to enhance safety measures at this intersection.
At a recent City Council meeting, Councilwoman Tricia Berg emphasized the urgency of acting to prevent further tragedies. She stated, “We need to be in support of doing something, because doing nothing is unacceptable.” Her comments resonate with many in the community who fear that failure to address the intersection’s dangers could lead to more fatal incidents.
Despite the circumstances surrounding the crashes—such as intoxicated driving and construction-related hazards—there remains an evident flaw in the design of the intersection. Local authorities recognize that inaction would only leave the community vulnerable to future accidents. The push for a roundabout reflects a proactive approach to preventing further loss of life and ensuring safer travel conditions for residents.
As discussions continue among local government officials, the emphasis remains on prioritizing safety and implementing changes that can effectively mitigate the risks posed by the intersection of Highway 2 and Airport Road. The community’s plea for action underscores the necessity of addressing a long-standing issue that has seen tragic consequences.
