New Traffic Impacts Scheduled for Minot’s Puppy Dog Coulee Project

Residents and commuters in Minot, North Dakota, should prepare for shifting traffic patterns as the city continues work on the Puppy Dog Coulee storm sewer improvement project. Beginning Tuesday, May 26, 2026, construction activity related to Phase 7A will introduce new disruptions in the southwest portion of the city.

Project Scope and Traffic Changes

The latest phase of the project focuses on 24th Avenue Southwest, specifically the stretch between 15th Street Southwest and Mall Loop Road. This construction will result in a partial closure of the roadway and will directly impact access to the Highlands Plaza parking lot.

While the road will face restrictions, the City of Minot has confirmed that businesses located within Highlands Plaza will remain accessible to pedestrians throughout the construction period. Motorists are advised to follow the designated detour, which will route traffic to 22nd Avenue Southwest.

crews are expected to initiate work on Phase 9 of the project by midweek. This will involve a tentative temporary traffic shift on 16th Street Southwest. Drivers should anticipate the following changes during this transition:

• Traffic Configuration: Vehicles will be diverted into a temporary bypass setup.
• Lane Usage: During the culvert installation under the west side of 16th Street Southwest, traffic will be restricted to head-to-head travel using only the two northbound lanes.
• Turn Restrictions: No left turns will be permitted from 24th Avenue Southwest onto 16th Street while this phase is active.

Background on the Puppy Dog Coulee Effort

The Puppy Dog Coulee storm sewer improvement project is a major infrastructure initiative for the City of Minot, representing a nearly $20 million investment. The project has been in development since at least 2015, with the first six phases reaching substantial completion in 2025.

The 2026 construction season focuses on critical utility work, including the installation of storm sewers, sanitary sewers, and water mains, alongside the reconstruction of sections of 24th Avenue Southwest near the Arco gas station and the intersection northwest of Target. The installation of concrete box culverts remains a key component of the ongoing work on 16th Street Southwest.

Key Takeaways for Commuters

• Effective Date: New traffic impacts begin Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
• Primary Impact Zone: 24th Avenue Southwest between 15th Street Southwest and Mall Loop Road.
• Detour Route: Traffic will be directed to 22nd Avenue Southwest.
• Safety First: Drivers are encouraged to remain mindful of posted speed limits and changing traffic patterns within the work zone.

As construction progresses throughout the summer, the city encourages residents to plan their commutes in advance and exercise caution when navigating areas near active work zones. Further updates regarding construction phases will be provided by city officials as the project continues toward completion.