Watford City, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Watford City officials have announced the closure of Wolves Den Parkway starting September 30. This closure will impact access to Watford City High School and Fox Hills Elementary School. Drivers are advised to use alternate routes through McKenzie Park Apartments, as access through the Rough Rider Center parking lot is prohibited. The repairs are necessary due to deteriorating concrete and are expected to last until at least October 7. Local authorities emphasize the importance of timely repairs to minimize disruption for students and the community.
Watford City officials have announced that Wolves Den Parkway will be closed starting September 30, 2025, at 6 a.m. This closure will impact the main access route to both Watford City High School and Fox Hills Elementary School. The closure zone extends between the two entrances of the Rough Rider Center (RRC), significantly affecting the daily commute for students, parents, and staff.
Drivers planning to reach the schools during this closure will need to take a detour through the nearby McKenzie Park Apartments. It is imperative to note that driving through the parking lot of the RRC and back onto the road is strictly prohibited. These measures aim to ensure safety and efficient traffic management during the repair process.
Watford City police have indicated that certain sections of the concrete on Wolves Den Parkway have deteriorated more rapidly than previously anticipated, necessitating immediate repairs. The city has prioritized this project to address the urgent situation and ensure the safety of all road users.
The planned closure is expected to last until at least October 7, 2025. The timeline may extend based on the concrete work required to restore the roadway. The installation of new concrete panels is particularly time-sensitive, as they need between 5 to 7 days of undisturbed traffic conditions to cure properly, ensuring they can support vehicle loads adequately once reopened.
This road closure, while inconvenient, underscores the commitment of local authorities to maintain and improve infrastructure for public safety. Education officials have communicated with parents and guardians concerning alternate routes and options as the schools navigate this temporary setback.
The importance of Wolves Den Parkway cannot be overstated, especially in the context of the local community’s reliance on this route for safe access to educational facilities. The timely completion of repairs is crucial for minimizing disruption to the academic calendar.
As the deadline approaches for the closure, updates will be provided to the community regarding progress and any changes to the timeline. The city urges everyone to stay informed and plan their routes accordingly during this period.
Key Details on the Wolves Den Parkway Closure
- Closure Start Date: September 30, 2025, at 6 a.m.
- Impact on Schools: Affects access to Watford City High School and Fox Hills Elementary.
- Closure Area: Between the two entrances of the Rough Rider Center.
- Alternate Routes: Detour through McKenzie Park Apartments; no access through RRC parking.
- Expected Duration: Until at least October 7, 2025.
- Concrete Work: New panels need 5 to 7 days of no traffic for proper curing.
Background and Context
The Rough Rider Center serves as a significant community center in Watford City, hosting various events and activities. Wolves Den Parkway is a vital artery for student transportation, and the repair initiative comes amid growing concerns over the infrastructure’s condition. Local authorities are working diligently to expedite repairs to ensure students can return to their regular routes as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Wolves Den Parkway closing?
The closure is necessary due to sections of concrete breaking up faster than anticipated, requiring immediate repairs to ensure safety.
How will this affect school access?
Access to Watford City High School and Fox Hills Elementary School will be impacted, necessitating detours through McKenzie Park Apartments.
How long will the closure last?
The road is expected to remain closed until at least October 7, 2025.
What can be done to prepare for the closure?
Drivers are advised to plan alternate routes for school access and stay updated on repair progress.
Key Features of the Closure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure Start Date | September 30, 2025 |
| Affected Schools | Watford City High School, Fox Hills Elementary |
| Detour Route | McKenzie Park Apartments |
| End Date Estimate | October 7, 2025 (tentative) |
| Concrete Curing Time | 5 to 7 days without vehicle traffic |
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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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