BOZEMAN, Mont. – The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and Knife River are beginning construction on the I-90 Bear Canyon to Jackson Creek project the week of August 4, weather and other unforeseen factors permitting. The project area begins at the Fort Ellis Road overpass and proceeds east through the canyon to the Jackson Creek Road Interchange (Exit 319).
The project will address the rutting and cracking in the pavement and improve the ride through this stretch of Interstate 90 (I-90). Additionally, the project will improve the overall pavement condition, increase skid resistance, and enhance safety features.
Planned improvements include removing and replacing the pavement on the east and westbound lanes of I-90, interstate on- and off-ramps, and adjacent crossroads. Additionally, concrete bridge approaches will be replaced to provide a smoother transition from the roadway to the bridge. Safety upgrades will include replacing the median concrete barrier rail, guardrail, and rumble strips; installing weather-activated flashing lights at four overpass bridges; and adding new paint markings and signage. The project will also see a seal and cover (chip seal) applied to the new pavement.
When construction begins, motorists should expect the following: one-lane traffic in each direction where work is taking place; brief delays of up to 30 minutes on I-90 on- and off-ramps as new pavement is placed near the merge points; delays on mainline I-90 limited to speed reductions; delays of up to 15 minutes on crossroads during paving operations; flaggers or temporary signals directing traffic on ramps and crossroads at times; and temporary closures of interchange on- and off-ramps for the replacement of cattle guards, paving, and chip sealing work. To minimize inconvenience, MDT will close only one interchange ramp at a time and provide detour routes. Width restrictions may be in place throughout construction.
Visit 511mt.net for the most up-to-date information on current restrictions.
For more information about this project visit the project website at mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/i90bearcanyon. If you have questions or would like to sign up for email updates, contact Andy@rbci.net or call 406-333-7461.
To sign up for text message updates, text CANYON to 866-434-0866 (toll free)*.
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MDT is a workforce of over 2,000 people across Montana determined to do all we can so that you arrive at your destination safely. Our mission is to build, operate, and maintain a safe and resilient transportation system. For more information, visit mdt.mt.gov.
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