Challenge: Concern for driver and pedestrian safety on the Standing Rock Indian Reservation and the Mandan-Hidatsa-Arikara Nation were outlined in a 2017 Roadway Safety Review. Rough winter weather, spring floods and outdated infrastructure result in poor road conditions and sometimes serious crashes.
Solution: Now, thanks to the new infrastructure investment law, these two tribal communities will see their roads updated. The project calls for new roundabouts, turn lanes, lighting, and rumble strips. For those who live here, and for those who want to experience the rich culture of these communities, a safer trip is just ahead.
What they’re saying: “Public safety is always a priority. This funding will help ease some of the burden that is put on our roads and existing infrastructure every day from the oil and gas industry,” – Mark Fox, chairman of the Mandan-Hidatsa-Arikara Nation. (INForum.com, 08/14/2022)
And…
‘Standing Rock offers a “vast tourism industry, rich in Native American history and culture, but unfortunately our road network does not match the beauty and can be considered by many as a deterrent.”’ – Janet Alkire, chairwoman of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe (INForum.com, 08/14/2022)
