Ward County Considers Roundabout for Dangerous Intersection

Engineers propose traffic circle to improve safety at County Roads 17 and 14

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Ward County officials are exploring the installation of a roundabout at the intersection of County Roads 17 and 14, which has been the site of numerous crashes. Engineers believe a traffic circle would be the best solution to improve safety at the problematic junction, though some residents have raised concerns about how it would function for large trucks and heavy equipment.

Why it matters

This intersection has been a recurring problem area for the county, with crash data indicating it is one of the more dangerous spots on the local road network. Addressing safety issues at high-risk intersections is a key priority for transportation authorities, as they work to reduce accidents and protect the public.

The details

Ward County's Highway Department says the intersection of County Roads 17 and 14 has consistently appeared in crash reports, prompting engineers to propose a roundabout as a potential solution. At a public meeting this week, residents voiced concerns about how the traffic circle would accommodate large commercial vehicles and heavy machinery, which are common in the rural area. However, engineers stated they have taken those considerations into account and believe the roundabout design can work effectively for all types of traffic.

  • A public meeting was held on Tuesday, February 18, 2026 to gather input on the proposed roundabout.
  • If approved, construction on the roundabout is tentatively scheduled to begin in the summer of 2027.

The players

Ward County Highway Department

The local transportation authority responsible for maintaining county roads and addressing safety issues.

Ward County Leaders

Elected officials who will ultimately decide whether to move forward with the roundabout project.

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What they’re saying

“The most prominent concern was the functionality of the roundabout for large trucks and heavy equipment.”

— Engineers (dakotanewsnetwork.com)

What’s next

If approved, construction on the roundabout is tentatively scheduled to begin in the summer of 2027.

The takeaway

This proposed roundabout project highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing traffic safety with the needs of commercial vehicles in rural communities. While roundabouts can be an effective tool for improving intersection safety, local officials must carefully consider how they will function for the unique traffic patterns and equipment common to the area.