Good morning, Bismarck.

Memorial Highway in Mandan is being renovated and is blocking business entrances, causing problems for local stores like Open Water Marine.

ND DOT and Reede Construction said the work, which updates the road and utilities, will last 2 to 3 weeks—once finished, the road will be ready for harsh winters.

Officials with Orsted said at a meeting Thursday morning with the Public Service Commission that nine turbines for the Badger Wind Farm near Wishek need a waiver to use standard blinking lights near Wishek Airport while the rest use a sensor system that activates with approaching aircraft. The company said that without the waiver the project—featuring 92 turbines in Logan and McIntosh counties—could lose about $60 million in value and pay local landowners $12 million less, and it aims to have the wind farm operational by the end of the year.

Anglers on Lake Sakakawea can expect larger Chinook salmon this season as warmer temperatures push fish to depths of 50 to 80 feet, setting up the chance for 8-to-10-pound catches through early August.

Biologists released 300,000 young salmon into the lake this spring — water levels have peaked for summer at the lowest since 2008, which may affect forage and fish growth.

The Bismarck City Commission approved the 2026 preliminary budget on July 22—this plan funds key investments in public safety, infrastructure and operations and will be finalized at a September meeting.

Nicholas W. Chase, a longtime federal prosecutor and judge appointed by Governor Doug Burgum in 2022, had the Senate Judiciary Committee approve his nomination to be North Dakota’s next U.S. Attorney—he served as interim prosecutor in 2021.

If confirmed by the full Senate, he will lead federal cases in the state.

Bismarck Airport is planning a terminal upgrade after passenger numbers grew from a design capacity of 240,000 to 309,000, and the study will explore options for more gates, space, and a new baggage claim—officials say demand could reach 430,000 in the next 20 to 25 years.

The planned improvements aim to prepare the airport for future growth and attract additional airline services.

Jason Stugelmeyer has been named Bismarck’s next police chief—he will officially take over on August 1 after Chief Dave Draovitch retires.

Residents have praised the pilot program for bulky item pickup and drivers can now choose trendy blackout plates—these plates cost a bit more to help fund state transportation.

Brandon Wade, a North Dakota Highway Patrol trooper with 17 years of on-road service, was named the 2024 Trooper of the Year after his lieutenant called to announce his selection.

He has worked for the state for 20 years checking semi-trucks for safety—he is also a certified brake tester and drone pilot who helps keep our roads secure.

AAPNAC Resident Assessment Coordinator Certification Workshop

Aug 12-14 — Courtyard Bismarck North — Member Rate: $777, Non-Member Rate: $996 — Enhance your clinical assessment skills and earn the RAC-CT credential in this comprehensive certification workshop.

Evening Exploration at ND's Gateway to Science

6-8 p.m. — North Dakota's Gateway to Science — $14 Non-members | $9 Members — Discover hands-on science and enjoy immersive planetarium shows just for adults.

Brew at the Zoo

6-9 p.m. — Dakota Zoo — $40 members, $45 non-members — Sample local brews and enjoy a unique tasting experience at the zoo.

Vendors Needed for Maleah Cares Talk Show

7-10 p.m. — Bismarck, ND — Showcase your products during an uplifting talk show highlighting inspiring stories.