Work on Lincoln Road between Montana Avenue and I 15 is substantially complete

HELENA, MT – The Montana Department of Transportation and Helena Sand and Gravel have completed the principal construction of the Lincoln Road – Montana to I 15 Project. This project saw the construction of two roundabouts and a substantial redesign of the I 15 Lincoln Road Interchange (Exit 200).

"This project was developed to improve the flow and operations of traffic and reduce the potential occurrence and severity of crashes in Helena's north valley," said Camaree Uljua, MDT Great Falls District Engineering Project Manager. "The roundabouts and improvements to Lincoln Road and I 15 should help reduce traffic congestion and enhance safety features in the area."

Crash data showed that between 2003 and 2013, a total of 59 crashes occurred within the project area. Many of these crashes involved more than one vehicle and either were rear end or right-angle collisions. A traffic study completed in 2013 identified and evaluated several intersection improvements including traffic signals and roundabouts.

Improvements completed in the corridor included constructing two roundabouts, a pedestrian crossing, turn lanes on to the southbound I 15 on-ramp, widening the southbound I 15 on-ramp, and adding an additional lane to the northbound I 15 off-

"MDT would like to acknowledge our project partners Robert Peccia and Associates (RPA) and Helena Sand and Gravel," said Uljua. "RPA spent several years identifying and designing the project improvements and Helena Sand and Gravel was the prime contractor for construction of the project."

Crews will return next year for additional work which will include a seal and cover (chip seal), application of paint markings, and other miscellaneous tasks.

Due to supply-chain issues, the installation of lights in the project area has been delayed. Crews will be on site to install these lights as soon as they arrive from the supplier.

MDT and Helena Sand and Gravel would like to thank the Helena community, local businesses, and the traveling public for their patience throughout construction," said Uljua. "This project was a major undertaking and our contractors worked hard to reduce impacts to the public as much as possible."