On Tuesday, October 27, 2026, the intersection of 5th Street and Front Avenue in Bismarck will undergo a significant change. The existing traffic signal at this busy junction is slated to be powered down, and in its place, an all-way stop configuration will be installed for a trial period expected to last several months. This temporary change aims to assess traffic flow and safety at an intersection with an aging signal.
According to City of Bismarck Traffic Engineer Chris Holzer, the current traffic signal has been in service far beyond its typical lifespan. Holzer stated that City of Bismarck records indicate the signal was originally installed in 1978, meaning it has been in continuous operation for over 48 years by the time of the proposed change. He noted that most traffic signals typically have a life expectancy of about 30 to 40 years, indicating the 5th Street and Front Avenue signal is "well beyond the typical life" of such equipment.
The planned change is also a precursor to a larger infrastructure project. In 2027, portions of Front Avenue and 5th Street are scheduled for a road construction project, which will include permanent modifications to the intersection. Holzer explained that as part of this upcoming project, the city must either replace or remove the current traffic signal. He further clarified that a key factor in this decision is that existing traffic volumes at the intersection do not meet the federal criteria required for installing a new traffic signal.
A study was conducted to compare the operational efficiency of the intersection under both a traffic signal and an all-way stop system. The findings of this study showed that an all-way stop yielded more favorable results. Specifically, the study indicated that an all-way stop configuration would lead to shorter lines of vehicles and reduced wait times for drivers compared to the current traffic signal operation.
During the trial period, the City of Bismarck's Engineering Department will closely monitor the intersection. Their plans include reviewing any crashes that may occur to assess safety implications. Furthermore, the department will coordinate directly with BNSF Railroad officials to observe traffic operations, particularly after trains pass through the railroad crossing located just north of the intersection. This specific observation is crucial due to the proximity of the tracks.
City engineers will be especially vigilant for any situations where the line of southbound vehicles might back up from Front Avenue and extend onto the railroad tracks. Should this specific issue be observed, the City's Engineering Department will consider alternative traffic control options. These potential alternatives include implementing a design with north-south free-flow traffic, where vehicles on 5th Street would not stop, coupled with stop signs specifically for east-west traffic on Front Avenue.
