Project Overview
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is working with Sanbell (formerly Sanderson Stewart) and the City of Great Falls on the 9th Street NW Reconstruction project. This project is a joint effort between the City and MDT, nominated through the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) process.
The project will reconstruct 9th Street NW, extending from Central Avenue W to the NW Bypass. As part of this effort, deteriorated pavement will be replaced, and storm drains will be upgraded to improve drainage. The signal at the intersection of 9th Street NW and the NW Bypass will also be upgraded. New curbs, gutters, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant curb ramps, and sidewalks will be installed or repaired throughout the project area to enhance accessibility. Additionally, the project plans to replace any trees affected by construction, with the addition of new boulevard trees.
9th Street NW Reconstruction Map.
9th Street NW Proposed Cross-Section
Project Timeline
The 9th Street NW/Watson Coulee Road project began with the initiation and development of design alternatives from 2021 to 2022. In 2022, the 9th Street NW and Watson Coulee Road segments were separated into two distinct projects. Preliminary design for the 9th Street NW segment took place in 2023 and 2024. The final design is anticipated to take place from 2024 to 2026. Construction is anticipated for 2026 based on funding availability and completion of design.
Impacts on the Public
The project will impact parking along 9th Street NW. To improve drainage and pedestrian accessibility, new sidewalks, curb and gutters, and ADA curb ramps are proposed within the public right-of-way. Existing parking within the public right-of-way would be eliminated to accommodate these new pedestrian and drainage facilities.
To discuss these changes to the boulevard (off-pavement) areas, please reach out to ella@benchmarkpublicaffairs.com.
Temporary impacts during construction may include reduced speeds, single-lane traffic, short-term street closures, and flagging operations.
Public Involvement
A public open house is tentatively scheduled for June 4th, 2025, at the West Elementary Auditorium from 4 to 7 p.m. This event will provide the community with an opportunity to learn more about the 9th Street reconstruction project. Attendees will be able to connect with project engineers and City staff to discuss street enhancements, anticipated timelines, and general processes. Landowners living adjacent to the project area who may be directly impacted by the rehabilitation should expect to hear from us before the public open house to provide more information and collect their feedback. More details will be shared once the schedule for the open house has been determined.
Engineer to English
Transportation Improvement Programs (TIPs): Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) in Billings, Great Falls, and Missoula developed Transportation Improvement Programs (TIPs) in partnership with local and state governments as part of MDT’s ongoing commitment to a comprehensive, cooperative transportation planning process.
Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO): A group in an urban area of more than 50,000 people responsible for transportation planning. It is a partnership between a locale and the federal government that helps guide investment decisions for projects like this one. MPOs identify opportunities to improve safety, plan improvements, and analyze trends.
Right-of-Way: Right-of-way consists of the legal right to make a ‘way’ over, or use, someone else’s land. MDT may acquire right-of-way by buying a piece of land or purchasing an ‘easement’ for specific transportation or public utility use (fiber internet, natural gas, power lines, etc.). Most easements are on private property, though some are owned by the state, city, or county.
Easement: A right created by an agreement to cross or use someone else’s property for a specific purpose. Examples may include placing utilities through a specific property or the necessity to access another property.
UPN 10338000