Project Overview

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and its partners, the City of Kalispell and contractor Schellinger Construction, are improving the intersection of 2nd Street East/Conrad Drive with Woodland Avenue by constructing a single-lane roundabout.

The project is designed to enhance safety by reducing the frequency and severity of crashes, while improving traffic flow through the intersection.

Timeline:

• Preparatory work began on July 21, 2026.
• The intersection will close on Monday, August 10, and remain closed throughout construction. Closing the area ensures safer, faster, and more efficient work within the limited project area.
• Crews plan to complete the majority of the work during the 2026 construction season and reopen the intersection to traffic by the end of the year.
• The project is anticipated to be fully completed by fall 2027.

This timeline is subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen factors.

Detour and alternate route signage will be in place to guide drivers around the closure. Access to nearby properties will be maintained.

Why a Roundabout?

MDT and the City of Kalispell evaluated multiple options to improve the intersection of 2nd Street East, Conrad Drive, and Woodland Avenue and decided to construct a single-lane roundabout. A roundabout:

• Fits within the public right-of-way.
• Enhances intersection safety.
  • Improves visibility of oncoming vehicles from all approaches.
  • Reduces the number of vehicle conflict points.
  • Slows traffic speeds through the intersection.
• Improves pedestrian and bicycle crossings.
  • Shorter crossing distances and fewer conflict points increase safety and comfort.
• Improves traffic flow.
  • Keeps vehicles moving with fewer stops and reduced delays.
• Allows larger vehicles, including school buses and trucks with trailers, to safely maneuver through the intersection using a truck apron.
• Provides long-term value as a cost-effective solution designed to efficiently handle projected traffic volumes for at least the next 20 years without significant additional investment.

Additionally, this intersection is part of an emergency route and is maintained by the City of Kalispell.