A tragic crash on Highway 2 and Airport Road has reignited calls for safety improvements at this notoriously dangerous intersection. In July 2024, a video from a vehicle’s rear-end camera captured the moments leading up to the collision that claimed the life of a six-year-old girl. The footage reveals a Dodge Ram pickup approaching the traffic signal at high speed before rear-ending a stopped vehicle. The driver, Travis Bell, was found to be under the influence and has since pleaded guilty, receiving a prison sentence of three to six years.
The intersection’s troubled history includes multiple incidents, with at least one previous fatality and numerous serious injuries reported. Local government entities, including the Grand Forks County Commission, the City Council, and the Airport Authority, are now collaborating to enhance safety measures at this critical juncture.
Proposal for a Two-Lane Roundabout
Currently, a proposal is on the table for a $12 million project to construct a two-lane roundabout at the intersection. County Commissioner Terry Bjerke presented data indicating that such roundabouts can reduce minor accidents by 35% and major accidents by as much as 70%. While this option is deemed more feasible, an alternative diamond interchange would cost approximately $100 million, making it less likely to receive funding.
Both the city and county governments are prepared to contribute about $600,000 to the project costs. The push for change has been particularly strong from the County Commission. Following the July crash, Commissioner Mark Rustad expressed a commitment to leverage his influence to advocate for safety improvements at the intersection.
Community Support and Urgency for Action
In recent discussions, Commissioner Bjerke has taken the lead, encouraging additional support from various boards. Members of the City Council are also voicing their support. During a recent meeting, Councilwoman Tricia Berg emphasized the necessity of action, stating, “We need to be in support of doing something, because doing nothing is unacceptable.”
The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. With two fatalities and over 40 reported crashes at this intersection in recent years, the need for intervention is clear. While extenuating circumstances played a role in some incidents—such as Bell’s intoxication and construction activities in 2021 that led to a chain-reaction crash—the inherent flaws at this intersection remain a pressing concern.
Failure to address these issues not only risks further tragedies but also reflects a disregard for community safety. The collaborative effort by local authorities represents a significant step toward ensuring that the intersection of Highway 2 and Airport Road becomes safer for all road users.
