Williston bypass to be ready in August

BISMARCK -- A temporary bypass that will help reduce truck traffic in Williston, N.D., should be completed in early August, the state Department of Transportation said Thursday.

The temporary bypass uses Williams County Road 6 and County Road 1 to divert traffic from the section of U.S. Highway 2 and N.D. Highway 85 that runs through Williston.

A permanent truck reliever route/bypass is under development. Public meetings were offered on proposed locations for the permanent route. The state Department of Transportation is working to finalize plans and begin construction in 2013, depending on funding.

The Williston area has seen a huge increase in truck traffic as part of oil development, which has created congestion, delays and safety concerns.

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