Traill County seeking public input on proposed replacement of aging Goose River structure in Hillsboro

Hillsboro, North Dakota – Officials in Traill County have announced a public meeting where residents will have the chance to learn more about a planned structure replacement in Hillsboro, North Dakota.

The meeting will focus on the future of Structure No. 49-120-19.0, a crossing located over the Goose River along Third Street Northeast in Hillsboro. Local leaders say the structure has reached a point where it is no longer in good condition and will need to be removed and replaced to ensure safe travel and long-term reliability.

Public Meeting Planned to Discuss Structure Replacement

Traill County will host a public input meeting on Monday, March 16, from 5 to 7 p.m. CT to discuss the proposed improvements. The meeting will take place at the Main Street Community Center, located at 21 South Main Street in Hillsboro.

Officials say the structure that currently spans the Goose River has deteriorated over time, making replacement necessary. The project will not only address the structure itself but also improve nearby infrastructure connected to the crossing.

Planned work related to the project includes removing and replacing the existing structure, along with roadway grading and new surfacing. Crews are also expected to adjust nearby city utilities, replace curbs, gutters, and sidewalks, and install riprap along the waterway to help stabilize the area.

Another important topic expected to be discussed is the potential impact on Woodland Park, a recreational property located nearby. The park is protected under Section 4(f) of the U.S. Department of Transportation Act of 1996, which safeguards certain public lands and recreational areas. Because of this protection, officials want to ensure that any potential impacts are carefully reviewed and discussed with the public.

The upcoming meeting will follow an open-house format designed to encourage conversation and community participation. Residents will be able to move through displays and informational materials at their own pace while speaking with officials and asking questions.

Attendees will have the chance to review project brochures, explore exhibits, and share feedback with those involved in the planning process. Representatives from Traill County and KLJ Engineering will be present during the meeting to answer questions, address concerns, and provide details about the proposed work.

Residents who want to review information before the meeting can also access open house materials online through the county’s website at https://traillcountynd.gov/167/Highway-Department.

Officials say community input is an important part of the planning process, and they encourage residents to share their thoughts. For those who cannot attend the meeting in person, written comments will still be accepted.

Written feedback must be postmarked or emailed by March 31, 2026, and should include the phrase “Public Input Meeting – PCN 23988” in the letter heading or email subject line.

Comments can be mailed to Matt Lange, KLJ Project Manager, 300 23rd Avenue E #100, West Fargo, North Dakota 58078, or sent by email to HillsboroStructureReplacement@kljeng.com.

County officials hope the meeting will provide residents with a clearer understanding of the project and give the community an opportunity to share their views before work moves forward.