News Summary
Wolves Den Parkway in Watford City will close for repairs starting September 30, impacting access to local schools. A detour through McKenzie Park Apartments will be necessary. The repairs are essential due to deteriorating concrete, with a projected completion date expected around October 7. Community members are urged to adhere to detours and exercise caution near construction zones. This critical roadway serves as a vital connection for residents and local services, emphasizing the need for timely maintenance as the area’s population continues to grow.
Watford City – Wolves Den Parkway will be closed starting September 30, 2025, at 6 a.m. to allow for necessary repairs to the roadway. This closure directly affects access to Watford City High School and Fox Hills Elementary School, as the affected stretch runs between the two entrances of the Rough Rider Center (RRC).
Motorists are advised to take a detour through the McKenzie Park Apartments to reach both schools during this period. It is important to note that driving through the parking lot of the RRC and back onto the highway is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.
The closure is anticipated to last until at least October 7, 2025, as the Watford City police department has reported that sections of the concrete road are deteriorating at a faster pace than previously thought, warranting immediate intervention. It has been indicated that new concrete panels will require a curing period of 5 to 7 days without vehicle traffic to strengthen adequately.
Reason for Repairs
The decision to close Wolves Den Parkway comes in light of recent assessments highlighting the urgent need for repair work. The rapid deterioration of the concrete road has raised concerns for the safety of drivers and pedestrians alike. Authorities have prioritized this project to ensure the reliability and safety of the route, especially given its significance for students commuting to school.
Alternate Routes
As the closure takes effect, all drivers heading towards either Watford City High School or Fox Hills Elementary School will need to utilize the designated detour through the McKenzie Park Apartments. This alternative route is expected to help maintain the flow of traffic and accommodate the influx of school-related vehicles until the repairs are completed. Drivers should plan for additional travel time as they adjust to the change in their usual routes.
Community Impact
The impact of the closure may also extend beyond school commutes. Residents and local businesses in the area could experience changes in traffic patterns, and patrons may need to consider alternate access routes as well. Local authorities are urging community members to adhere to detour signage and exercise caution while traveling near construction zones to ensure everyone’s safety during the repair work.
Background on Wolves Den Parkway
Wolves Den Parkway has been a critical thoroughfare in Watford City, connecting residents with essential services, schools, and recreational facilities. The Rough Rider Center adjacent to the road serves as a community hub, adding to the importance of maintaining the roadway in good condition. With the area’s population growing and the infrastructure being put to greater use, the maintenance of such roads becomes increasingly vital.
The city’s infrastructure team will closely monitor the repair process, aiming for a timely and efficient completion of the construction work. Once the immediate repairs are undertaken, further assessments may be conducted to prevent similar deterioration in the future.
In conclusion, those affected by the closure of Wolves Den Parkway are encouraged to stay informed about the progress of repairs and comply with all detour routes and signage during this period. The project is expected to ensure not only the safety of residents and students in the area but also the overall integrity of Watford City’s roadway infrastructure.
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Additional Resources
- KXNet: Road closure to affect school entrances in Watford City
- Wikipedia: Watford City
- The Dickinson Press: NDDOT and McKenzie County celebrate completion of 100 million U.S. Highway 85 expansion
- Google Search: Watford City North Dakota news
- KFYR TV: Highway 85 project completed between Watford City & Long X
- Encyclopedia Britannica: North Dakota
- Williston Herald: Construction to begin on Highway 2
- Google News: North Dakota road closures

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