Jamestown Committee Advances State Transportation Plan, Major Projects Ahead

The Jamestown Public Works Committee voted unanimously on November 20 to recommend approval of the 2027 to 2030 State Transportation Improvement Plan. Committee members approved a list of prioritized projects that begin in 2027 and extend into the early 2030s. The recommendation now awaits final funding approval by the North Dakota Department of Transportation.

Projects scheduled for 2027 include reconstruction of the Business Loop West, concrete pavement repair on U.S. Highway 52 from 7th Avenue Northwest to 9th Street Southeast, and a mill and overlay on 4th Avenue East from 10th Street Southeast to 5th Street Northeast. City Engineer Travis Dillman told the committee that many projects are concentrated in 2027 and that NDDOT must complete final funding authorization before work can proceed. The plan lists estimated local and federal shares for several items, providing the public with a clearer sense of financial responsibilities for the city and county.

The STIP also outlines projects in later years. In 2029 the plan shows concrete repair on Mill Hill and an overlay on 7th Avenue East. Longer term, in the 2031 to 2035 window, planners included potential overpass or underpass options for the viaduct. The most expensive long term item noted is a potential bridge overpass on 7th Avenue, with an estimated cost of more than $12.7 million. Those large scale projects remain subject to further study, design work, and funding decisions.

Committee discussion highlighted local operational concerns as well as capital priorities. Members analyzed how construction could affect emergency response and urged attention to maintaining safe access for first responders during work. The committee also discussed the possibility of adding passenger rail related improvements to the list of considerations, reflecting broader interest in multimodal options. The Fire Department informed the committee of equipment needs, including purchases of new self contained breathing apparatuses, as part of the city safety and readiness conversation tied to project timing and budgets.

For Jamestown residents the plan signals significant construction activity in the near term and a series of larger planning choices in the decade ahead. Short term work on U.S. Highway 52 and city arterials will bring traffic disruptions and detours, but also pavement condition improvements and potential long term safety benefits. Financially the listed local versus federal cost shares will shape municipal budgeting and may influence future tax and capital spending decisions.

Next steps include NDDOT review and funding decisions, followed by project scheduling and public notices as individual projects move toward design and construction. The committee recommendation provides a framework for municipal coordination, emergency planning, and community engagement as Jamestown prepares for an active period of transportation investment.