North Dakota’s U.S. 85 Expressway expansion projects progress
Construction activity continues to accelerate along the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway corridor as contractors push forward on two major U.S. Highway 85 expansion projects south of Watford City, North Dakota, representing more than $145 million in transportation infrastructure investment in McKenzie County. The projects include a 5.5-mile segment extending north from reference point 120.3 to the Long X Bridge and a 12.5-mile segment stretching south from reference point 120.3 to North Dakota Highway 200. According to a June 2026 construction progress report released by the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway Association, work is underway on two separate four-lane highway expansion projects designed to improve safety, freight movement, and long-term transportation capacity through one of North Dakota’s busiest energy and agricultural corridors.
Construction officially began in April 2026 and is expected to continue through the 2026 and 2027 construction seasons. Project officials anticipate substantial completion by November 2027, with completion scheduled for October 14, 2028. When complete, the expanded highway will support long-term freight transportation, energy development, agricultural commerce, tourism and regional mobility throughout North Dakota’s western region.
