Where is this project located?
This project is located in Yellowstone County in the city of Billings at the intersection of Parkhill and North 13th Street West.
What will the project at Parkhill and 13th consist of?
The proposed project includes minor shifts in the alignment of Parkhill to better accommodate traffic movements and improve safety. The widths of the shoulders were reduced to minimize right of way impacts and increase safety of traffic movements. Intersection curb extensions, or "bulb-outs", are also being included with this project to reduce pedestrian crossing distances and increase intersection visibility. Luminaires (street lights) will also be installed to make the intersection more visible at night. There will also be new signing and crosswalks included in the project. Below is an aerial photo showing the preliminary concepts.
What is the project’s primary purpose?
The purpose of this safety project is to reduce the number and severity of crashes at this location and to improve the operational characteristics, or "usability" of the intersection. The MDT Safety Management Section has identified this location based on recorded crash data and recommends realignment of the intersection to improve the existing jog of the Parkhill legs of the intersection.
Is there a need for this project?
There were 17 recorded crashes from January 1, 2001 to December 31, 2003 at the Parkhill and North 13th Street West intersection. Thirteen of these crashes are considered correctable by implementation of the subject improvements. Based on this crash history, it is very apparent this intersection needs to be improved.
