Project Overview
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) plans to reconstruct approximately 6 miles of State Secondary Highway 279 (S 279), also known as Lincoln Road, from the roundabout at Green Meadow Drive west to the intersection with Birdseye Road in Silver City.
Lincoln Road was originally an old homesteading trail and was never designed for modern motor vehicle travel. Previously, the existing roadway was paved to make vehicular travel smoother, but no redesign of the original alignment has been undertaken. This project will reduce hazards via improved alignment and wider shoulders for present-day travel and accommodate future Helena Valley growth.
Outreach to landowners along the impacted route is ongoing, and right-of-way discussions could begin in 2023.
Project Timeline and Cost
The Lincoln Road project is expected to cost about $15.5 million, which accounts for projected inflation. Construction is currently anticipated for 2028, depending on the availability of funding and project development.
Impacts on the Public
Any impacts on the public will be published on this website and other media before construction commences. Leading up to construction, the public should expect to see crews along the side of the roadway relocating utilities.
Vision Zero
MDT has undertaken an ambitious goal through Vision Zero to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on Montana’s highways. MDT is working towards Vision Zero to ensure Montana’s thousands of miles of state roads and highways are built and maintained with safety as the first concern. MDT is committed to providing transportation systems and safe and affordable services, protecting the environment, and supporting economic growth in Montana.
Stay Involved
Public involvement is vital to MDT and the success of the project. As the project progresses, the community will be notified about public involvement opportunities via this website, local media, postcards, social media channels, and other means.
MDT encourages questions and comments about the project. You can submit them through the MDT Comment page or directly to our team at
Engineer to English
Right-of-Way: Right-of-way (ROW) consists of the right to make a ‘way’ over a piece of 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. MDT works directly with landowners/managers to ensure the smoothest ROW process possible.
UPN 8939000