Major U.S. 2 roadwork planned for next year

The Montana Department of Transportation is seeking comments on a proposal to resurface about 2.5 miles of U.S. 2 in Columbia Falls, from just west of Hilltop Road to the east end of the Flathead River Bridge.

Proposed work includes milling the driving and passing lanes and filling them with new asphalt followed by a full-width chip-sealing.

Other work includes storm drain improvements, new sidewalks, upgraded existing sidewalk ramps, upgraded pavement markings, signage and a deck seal for the Flathead River Bridge.

MDT is tentatively scheduling the roadwork for 2016, depending on completion of all project development activities and availability of funding.

No new right-of-way will be needed, but sidewalk agreements will be pursued with adjacent property owners where sidewalk construction will require minor revisions of the paved driveways behind the sidewalk. Utility relocations also may be needed.

For more information, contact Missoula District administrator Ed Toavs at 406-523-5802 or project design engineer Bill Squires at 406-444-6228.

Written comments may be sent to the Montana Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 7039, Missoula MT 59807-7039 or online at www.mt.gov/mdt/comment_form.shtml. Note that comments are for project UPN 8730000.