A tragic incident in July 2024 claimed the life of a six-year-old girl and has reignited calls for safety improvements at the intersection of Highway 2 and Airport Road, located west of Grand Forks. A video captured moments before the crash shows a Dodge Ram pickup truck, driven by Travis Bell, colliding into a stopped vehicle at high speed. Bell, who was intoxicated, has since pleaded guilty to charges related to the crash and faces a prison sentence of three to six years.
Despite the driver’s impaired state, the intersection has a troubling history, including another fatality, numerous serious injuries, and over 40 accidents in recent years. Recognizing the urgent need for change, local government entities, including the Grand Forks County Commission, the City Council, and the Airport Authority, are advocating for a safer solution.
Proposed Changes and Community Support
The current proposal includes a $12 million project to construct a two-lane roundabout at the hazardous intersection. According to data presented by County Commissioner Terry Bjerke, two-lane roundabouts can reduce minor accidents by 35% and major accidents by 70%. This option is favored over a diamond interchange, which would cost approximately $100 million.
If the roundabout project moves forward, both the city and county will contribute roughly $600,000 towards the costs. The County Commission has been particularly vocal in pushing for improvements. Commissioner Mark Rustad emphasized his commitment to leverage personal connections to facilitate change. “I am 100% motivated to use whatever influence I may have,” he stated in a recent interview.
Support for the initiative has gained momentum within the City Council as well. Councilwoman Tricia Berg expressed the urgency of action, declaring, “We need to be in support of doing something, because doing nothing is unacceptable.” Her statement resonates with the community, which is eager to prevent further tragedies at this intersection.
Addressing the Intersection’s Flaws
The repeated incidents at Highway 2 and Airport Road highlight an evident flaw that demands attention. Conditions contributing to accidents, such as Bell’s intoxication or construction-related factors during a previous incident involving truck driver Steven Charles Piechowski, underscore the need for a comprehensive safety strategy.
The community’s call for action is not merely about reacting to isolated incidents but addressing the systemic issues that make the intersection dangerous. Inaction could lead to another avoidable tragedy, reinforcing the sentiment expressed by Berg.
With strong backing from local officials and community members, the proposed roundabout represents a proactive step towards enhancing road safety. The collective effort aims to turn a site of sorrow into a safer passage for all motorists.
