Why is this project happening now?

The Main Street and Broadway intersection was originally identified in Belgrade’s 2017 Long Range Transportation Plan as a critical intersection requiring improvement. Further traffic analysis conducted in 2023 and 2024 forecast the intersection as expected to have failing traffic operations with traffic queuing that extends through nearby intersections and across the adjacent BNSF railroad crossing and therefore creating gridlock within the next 20 years and a significant safety concern at the rail crossing. This would impact the safety of the traveling public and railway operations.

Additionally, the Jackrabbit Lane – Madison to Main – Belgrade Urban project is planned to begin construction in 2029. Completing construction on the Main Street and Broadway intersection prior to construction on Jackrabbit Lane will provide an improved alternative route for traffic through Belgrade. While portions of Jackrabbit Lane are closed to traffic, other intersections, including the Dry Creek Road and Spooner Road intersection, are also anticipated to carry higher traffic volumes during construction

Why was a mini-roundabout selected over a signal at the Main Street and Broadway intersection?

The purpose of this project is to address existing and future traffic operations and safety concerns at Main Street and Broadway. The project team recognizes that traffic queuing is a concern, especially during train crossings, along with pedestrian accessibility.

This project started with an alternatives analysis to compare five different intersection improvement options. These included:

• No-build
• Traffic signal with left-turn lanes
• Traffic signal without left-turn lanes
• Single-lane roundabout
• Single-lane mini-roundabout

As part of the alternatives analysis phase, the following list of criteria was used to evaluate each alternative:

• Traffic operations
• Queueing
• Safety performance
• Quality of pedestrian, bicycle, and transit facilities
• Design and construction cost estimates
• Impacts to parking, right-of-way, and adjacent properties
• Constructability
• Impacts to railway operations

The technical advisory committee, including MDT, the City of Belgrade, and BNSF Railway staff, met several times throughout the alternatives analysis to evaluate options and ultimately selected the mini-roundabout as the preferred alternative. This decision was based on operational and safety performance, along with the shorter pedestrian crossing distances. The mini-roundabout also has less impact on on-street parking than the Traffic Signal with Left-turn Lanes alternative. Queuing and turn lane lengths would require all available street width to be occupied with vehicle lanes, and all parking would be removed on the north side of Main Street had this alternative been selected. Additionally, the Traffic Signal without Left-turn Lanes option was not selected as it could result in traffic backups and had limited improvements to traffic flow, and only moderate safety benefits for all users.

How will the lost street parking be replaced?

The project team understands the importance of downtown on‑street parking to the community and recognizes that some parking loss will be inconvenient. In response, several adjustments to the project design are being implemented to retain as much parking as possible while maintaining safety and supporting project goals.

These efforts include:

• Adjusting the length and layout of the roundabout approach to minimize impact to the on-street parking, while maintaining safety for all users.
• Removing east-west bicycle routes from Main Street. This would allow some on-street parking to be maintained.

In coordination with this project, the City of Belgrade is working through the permitting process with BNSF to construct a new parking lot on Main Street at the former Belgrade Lounge site. BNSF is currently demolishing the structure to make room for future parking improvements.

Is accessible (ADA) parking being considered during the design of this project?

Yes, accessible parking has been a high priority throughout the project. The city parking lot currently includes two Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible parking spaces and will be increased to three spaces. On-street ADA parking spaces will be relocated to the closest available on-street location.

Can semi-trucks and farm equipment pass through the roundabout?

Yes. The mini roundabout has been designed to safely accommodate semi‑trucks, farm equipment, and other large vehicles that regularly use this intersection. This also includes the well-attended Belgrade parades!

The center island will have a mountable island, which allows the rear wheels of larger vehicles and their trailers to track over it as they move through the roundabout. This feature is intentional and commonly used in roundabout design. It allows large vehicles to navigate the intersection safely while keeping speeds lower for all users. This type of movement is both safe and legal.

What will happen when a train blocks Broadway?

When a train crosses Broadway, the north, east, and west legs will be able to function normally to keep traffic moving through downtown. The intersection has been designed with features, including a gate, intended to discourage vehicles from stopping within the roundabout when a train is present and to clear vehicles off the tracks as a train approaches. This includes traffic signals and signage.

Drivers must follow posted signage and traffic signals, as required by law.

Is a roundabout safe for pedestrians?

Pedestrian safety is a priority for MDT and the City of Belgrade. Roundabouts have been shown to decrease fatal and serious injuries at stop-controlled intersections by up to 82% (AASHTO Journal - State DOTs Highlight How Roundabouts Improve Safety). The average speed of vehicles entering a single-lane roundabout is 15-20 mph versus a traditional signalized intersection where vehicles travel at an average of 25-30 mph. The mini-roundabout supports safety efforts by shortening crossing distances and requiring vehicles to slow down as they move through the intersection. Most legs of the mini-roundabout include pedestrian refuge islands which further enhance safety. Other enhanced pedestrian facilities are included in the design, such as high visibility crosswalks, lighting, and a pedestrian gate system at the railroad crossing.

What will this project cost?

The estimated total construction cost for this project is approximately $7 million, which also includes a new traffic signal and widening at the Thorpe Road and Amsterdam Road intersection, and traffic signal improvements at the I-90 eastbound and westbound ramp intersections.

Has the downtown atmosphere been considered in the project planning?

Yes. The downtown setting was an important consideration in project planning. The design aims to balance safety and traffic operations while maintaining the character of downtown Belgrade, including walkability, access to businesses and nearby parking, and features that support slower driving speeds. The project also supports the City’s ongoing efforts to establish a railroad quiet zone.

Parades and downtown events will be able to continue normally, though there may be temporary impact during construction.

Are there plans to replace lost trees?

Yes. MDT plans to plant trees along Main Street to replace those that will have to be removed. The exact locations and details of those replacements are still being evaluated and will be determined as the project progresses. Coordination with the City of Belgrade is ongoing.

Are there other examples of roundabouts in an area like this?

Yes. Here are a few examples:

Helena – There is a roundabout on Lincoln Road, which shares several characteristics with this intersection. It replaced a four way stop, is located near businesses, is close to a school, and experiences regular pedestrian use. The planned roundabout at Last Chance Gulch, Neill, Helena, and Cruse is a good example of a roundabout being integrated into a historic downtown environment.

What will happen to my utility access during construction?

During future construction, there may be brief interruptions to utility services. If lengthy interruptions are required, temporary water and sewer connections will be provided. The City of Belgrade plans to replace the water and sewer mains located beneath the intersection at the same time as the roadway intersection improvements are constructed. Coordinating this work helps reduce the need for additional construction and future disruptions. Any planned utility interruptions will be communicated with property owners and tenants in advance.

Will my employees and customers be able to access my business during construction?

Yes. The contractor will be required to maintain access to local businesses throughout construction. As work gets closer, the project team will coordinate with property and business owners to discuss access needs.

Is this project part of the Downtown Belgrade Master Plan or the Urban Renewal District (TIF) Plan?

The Downtown Design Plan (2020) identifies the Broadway and Main Street intersection as a location where improvements are needed. While the plan does not specify a particular design or treatment, it recognizes this intersection as a priority for enhancing safety, circulation, and the overall downtown environment.

The Belgrade Commercial Center Urban Renewal District Plan also does not identify specific projects, but instead outlines broader goals such as infrastructure improvements, walkability, and support for downtown investment. This project aligns with several of those goals.

Who should I contact if I have questions or concerns about the project?

Please contact Cathlyn Hammond or Lisa Olmsted at 833-396-0845 or BelgradeIntImpXYZdowlABCcom.