January 23, 2008 - The Alternative Analysis for the two alignment options has been completed by HKM Engineering and turned into MDT. This document can be accessed on the Downloads page. This Analysis has been thoroughly examined by the key stakeholders for this project, and the decision has been made to proceed with the design of the project utilizing the option/alternative that follows the current roadway from RP 1.9 to RP 3.5. There will still be minor alignment modifications from what exists in order to provide a safe alignment that meets current design standards.
The decision was based on all information presented in the Alternatives Analysis. The option to follow the existing roadway has fewer social, environmental, and economic impacts, is less costly, and has a higher benefit/cost ratio than the option utilizing a new alignment.
Project development will now continue forward. A preliminary alignment and grade will be established, and another public informational meeting will be held to inform the public of the option chosen.
May 29, 2007 - The rough draft of the analysis by HKM Engineering has been recently turned into MDT for review. MDT has reviewed this document and will be meeting with HKM Engineering concerning additional information required. Once revisions and additions are made, a decision can be made which option will be pursued through design. This document will be available on the "Downloads" page once it is finalized. MDT welcomes all public comments on all projects, but it is especially important we receive feedback from the public concerning this impact study.
July 13, 2006 - The Montana Department of Transportation continues to investigate the proposed options for this project. Due to widely varied public response to options presented at public meetings held October 2005 and February 2006, MDT has decided to conduct additional in-depth investigations to evaluate the proposed options and examine all issues related to the proposed project.
HKM Engineering has been contracted to complete an independent analysis of the two options for the alignment between milepost 1.9 and 3.5. These options are those presented at the public meetings held October 2005 and February 2006. Option 1 would involve a re-alignment of the curves from milepost 1.9 to milepost 3.5 into one large curve north of the current highway. Option 2 would generally follow the current roadway, with slight shifts in the areas of the curves. This investigation will determine the best balance of safety, environmental impacts, impacts to landowners, and project cost. If necessary, this process will include personal landowner contact. No decision will be made until the study has been completed.
