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Theodore Roosevelt Expressway February update
In February 2024, the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) and the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway Association shared updates on the US Highway 85 construction project. A significant highlight was the approval of a $55 million federal grant, earmarked for expanding the highway to four lanes between the Long X Bridge south of Watford City and Highway 200. The ongoing second year of construction between the Long X Bridge and Watford City is expected to conclude by Fall 2024. Additionally, project development activities are underway for the segment between Highway 200 and the Long X Bridge. NDDOT is working through grant requirements and funding plans for various construction segments, addressing legislative requests for an overall funding plan. These efforts are focused securing funding for the sections between I-94 and Highway 200, as well as the southern Badlands segment beyond the Long X Bridge. NDDOT is preparing a request for proposals (RFP) to engage a consultant to facilitate project development and engineering design for these segments.
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McKenzie County births in 2023
McKenzie County recorded 247 births in 2023 according to data taken from the North Dakota Department of Health. That number is higher than the 2021 and 2022 birth numbers and ties the 2020 number. Find more information on vital records in McKenzie County here.
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Open positions at the Bakken Area Skills Center
The Bakken Area Skills Center is looking for talented and motivated instructors in the areas of Automation, Automotive Technology, Information Technology, Welding, CDL, Petroleum Technology, UAS or a similar trades to teach classes for the 2024-25 school year. Applicants must have a North Dakota CTE Teaching License, OR four years of industry experience. Salary is contingent upon experience, benefits included.
Click here for more information.
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Maah Daah Hey film released on YouTube
A new documentary film named "Maah Daah Hey" is now available to watch on YouTube. The film centers around the 2023 Maah Daah Hey 100 race, one of America's most rugged ultra-endurance mountain bike races that annually takes place in August. The film follows long-time pro athlete Kelly Magelky and local amateur Tyler Huber as they race to the finish line. Watch the Stable Cyclist film here.
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February Economy at a Glance
The February Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include:
McKenzie County's oil production in December 2023 was 11,438,274 barrels; in December 2022 it was 10,105,264 barrels.
The city sales tax distribution for Alexander in January 2024 was $71,098; in January 2023 it was $52,745.
The landfill daily average for McKenzie County in January 2024 was 60.4 tons; in January 2023 it was 56.8 tons.
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ND Industrial Commission awards millions in grants and loans for the Clean Sustainable Energy program
The North Dakota Industrial Commission approved $21.8 million in matching grants and $153 million in loans for the Clean Sustainable Energy program. Launched in 2021 to promote low-emission technologies in the state's energy sector, the program is funded by oil tax revenue and mineral royalties. Notable projects from around the state were endorsed by these loans and grants, including a $9.5 million grant and a $8.5 million loan to Cerilon to further support construction of a natural gas-to-liquids production facility in Williams County, a project that McKenzie County is also supporting. Comprising of Governor Doug Burgum, Attorney General Drew Wrigley and Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring, the Commission praised the initiative for its potential to alleviate regulatory burdens while bolstering energy resilience. Read more on the Roundup story here.
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Dollar Generals now open in Watford City
Dollar General has now opened two stores in Watford City to accommodate the demands of the expanding population. One store is located off Main Street at 504 Main Street and the other is located east of town at 406 Hunter's Run Street. The two stores deliver everyday low prices on items including food, snacks, health and beauty aids, cleaning supplies, family apparel, houseware, seasonal items, paper products and much more. Visit the stores for your shopping needs today!
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Western Crop and Pest Management School
The 2024 Western Crop and Pest Management School will be held in Minot, ND at the Sleep Inn Hotel, March 12-13. Hosted by North Dakota State University Extension, the school helps prepare individuals to be successful field scouts and will update agricultural professionals on research and crop production recommendations for major and minor crops grown in North Dakota. Learn more and register here. The registration deadline is March 1 or when the school is full.
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Application window now open for Regional Workforce Impact Program
The Department of Commerce announces the opening of the Regional Workforce Impact Program (RWIP) grant application window until April 1, 2024. RWIP aims to address workforce challenges in North Dakota through locally led solutions, providing grants to regional entities. Eligible applicants include economic development organizations, cities, tribal entities and others. Projects must address immediate workforce challenges fall under specified categories like talent attraction, retention and infrastructure investments. The application period runs from February 5 to April 1, with review and decision notifications following in April. Click here to learn more and apply for the RWIP grant.
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Rec Show coming to the McKenzie County Ag Expo
The 2024 Rec Show will be held April 5-7 at the McKenzie County Ag Expo in Watford City. Held at the Rough Rider Center in years past, the 2024 Rec Show promises to be the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts, showcasing the latest recreational vehicles and equipment. From fishing poles and boats to RVs and Harleys, you'll find some fantastic deals to spring into a great summer!
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Save the Date for Main Street ND Summit 2024
The ND Department of Commerce has announced the rescheduled date for the Main Street ND Summit that was supposed to be held in Watford City in October of 2023. The 2024 Main Street ND Summit will now be held August 27-29, 2024 in Watford City, ND. The the Summit theme is Regional Prosperity. Save this date and stay tuned for more information.
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2024 ND Reclamation Conference
The 2024 North Dakota Reclamation Conference is scheduled for February 27-28 at the Astoria Hotel in Dickinson, ND. Click here for more information and to register.
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Job openings
Many great job opportunities are posted on the Job Service North Dakota website each week. View and post job openings for no charge at jobsnd.com.
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Upcoming Events in McKenzie County
Be sure to check out the Community Events Calendar regularly to stay up-to-date on upcoming events and activities in the area!
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