Belfield, North Dakota – Traffic has resumed on a section of Highway 85 south of Belfield after a temporary closure caused by a crash investigation conducted by the North Dakota Highway Patrol (NDHP). Authorities confirmed that the roadway, which had been restricted for several hours, is now fully open to through traffic.
The closure affected a key stretch of Highway 85 used by local and long-distance drivers, prompting detours and traffic advisories while investigators worked at the scene.
Incident Overview
According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, part of U.S. Highway 85 was closed approximately 18 miles south of Belfield during an active crash investigation. The affected area was located near mile marker 58, where troopers secured the scene to ensure safety and gather necessary evidence.
During the closure, law enforcement urged drivers to avoid the area unless absolutely necessary, noting that access between Belfield and mile marker 58 was limited to local traffic only.
The NDHP later confirmed that the investigation had concluded and that the roadway had been reopened, restoring normal traffic flow along the corridor.
Timeline of Events
The traffic disruption began when authorities closed the affected portion of Highway 85 to investigate a reported crash. Troopers remained on site for several hours, directing traffic and implementing detours while documenting the scene.
Once the investigation was completed and the roadway was deemed safe, the NDHP announced that Highway 85 was reopened, allowing both northbound and southbound traffic to resume without restrictions.
No specific reopening time was released, but officials emphasized that the closure was lifted as soon as it was safe to do so.
Details From Law Enforcement
The NDHP provided guidance throughout the closure, including alternative routes for drivers traveling through the area.
In an advisory issued during the investigation, the agency stated:
“The roadway is closed at mile marker 58, and motorists are encouraged to avoid the area from Belfield to the closure point if possible. Local traffic only is permitted during the investigation.”
The patrol also shared routing information to help minimize delays and congestion on nearby roads.
Traffic Detours and Alternate Routes
While the investigation was ongoing, drivers were directed to use alternate routes depending on their direction of travel.
Northbound traffic was advised to use Highway 21 as an alternate route to bypass the closed section.
For southbound traffic, the detour was more detailed and included multiple county roads:
- Travel east on 52nd Street
- Go south on 122nd Avenue
- Continue east on 54th Street
- Proceed south on 126th Avenue to reach ND-21
- Then travel west on ND-21 to reconnect with U.S. Highway 85
These detours remained in place until the roadway reopened and were designed to keep traffic moving safely around the investigation area.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Roadway: U.S. Highway 85
- Location: About 18 miles south of Belfield, near mile marker 58
- Authority: North Dakota Highway Patrol
- Traffic restriction: Local traffic only during investigation
- Detours: Highway 21 and multiple county roads
- Status: Highway 85 reopened
Additional Context and Safety Considerations
Crash investigations often require full or partial road closures to protect first responders and ensure accurate documentation of the scene. Highways like U.S. 85 are vital routes for both commercial and passenger vehicles, so even temporary closures can have a significant impact on travel.
Authorities remind drivers to remain alert for emergency vehicles, obey posted detours, and reduce speed when approaching incident scenes. Staying informed through official updates from agencies such as the NDHP helps drivers plan safer and more efficient routes during unexpected disruptions.
Conclusion
The reopening of Highway 85 south of Belfield marks the end of a temporary disruption caused by a crash investigation near mile marker 58. With the investigation completed and the roadway cleared, traffic is once again flowing normally along this important route.
Drivers traveling through the area are encouraged to remain cautious, stay aware of changing road conditions, and follow guidance from law enforcement when incidents occur.
If you were affected by the closure or used the detour routes, share your experiences in the comments below.
