A tragic accident at the intersection of Highway 2 and Airport Road near Grand Forks has reignited calls for urgent safety improvements. In July 2024, a video from the rear-end camera of a vehicle waiting at a traffic signal captured the moment a Dodge Ram pickup, driven by Travis Bell, collided with a stopped car at high speed. The crash claimed the life of a 6-year-old girl and has since highlighted the dangerous conditions at this intersection.
Bell, who was found to be driving under the influence, pleaded guilty in a trial last month and faces a prison sentence of three to six years. While alcohol played a significant role in this incident, the intersection has a troubling history of accidents, including at least one other fatality, multiple serious injuries, and numerous minor collisions.
Local government entities, including the Grand Forks County Commission, the City Council, and the Airport Authority, are now supporting a proposed $12 million project aimed at improving safety at this notorious intersection. The plan focuses on constructing a two-lane roundabout, which, according to County Commissioner Terry Bjerke, can reduce minor accidents by 35% and major accidents by 70%.
The alternative option—a diamond interchange—would significantly increase costs to nearly $100 million, making the roundabout proposal more feasible. If the project proceeds, both the city and county are expected to contribute approximately $600,000 each towards the initiative.
Commissioner Mark Rustad has been a vocal advocate for change since the fatal crash. In the weeks following the incident, he expressed his determination to leverage his influence and relationships to enhance safety at the intersection. “I am 100% motivated to use whatever influence I may have,” he stated, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
Recently, Bjerke has taken charge of rallying support from other governing bodies. During a City Council meeting, Councilwoman Tricia Berg made a strong case for moving forward with safety measures. “We need to be in support of doing something, because doing nothing is unacceptable,” she asserted, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
The intersection has witnessed two fatalities from separate incidents and over 40 crashes in recent years. While there have been unique circumstances surrounding some accidents—such as Bell’s intoxication and construction-related hazards during a previous incident—there remains a clear and pressing need to address the inherent dangers of the intersection.
Failing to implement safety measures at Highway 2 and Airport Road risks further tragedies, as highlighted by Berg’s poignant statement. The community stands at a critical juncture; the choice to act now could prevent future loss of life and improve the safety of all who travel through this intersection.
