Hwy 209 to be paved, sealed

Bigfork Eagle

The Montana Department of Transportation is planning to resurface Highway 209 just south of Bigfork in 2008.

The project begins at the intersection of Montana Highway 35 and Highway 209 (milepost 30.6) and extends the entire length of Highway 209 — about 4.87 miles.

MDT proposes to resurface Highway 209 with new asphalt, followed by a chip seal. Safety improvements will include increased skid resistance, minor striping revisions, highly reflective pavement markings, and the installation of guardrail end sections at the Swan River Bridge, according to MDT officials.

The purpose of the project is to enhance the safety of the highway, provide a smoother, longer-lasting pavement and take cost-effective action to preserve and maintain the existing highway.

The public can expect single-lane closures in the project area during working hours. More information regarding closures will be made available prior to the beginning of construction.

MDT anticipates no property acquisition, though utility relocations may be necessary near the Swan River Bridge.

Construction is expected to begin in 2008, depending on availability of funding and completion of design. The project will go out for bids in March.

People may submit written comments to the Montana Department of Transportation, Missoula Office at PO Box 7030, Missoula, MT 59807-7039, or online at www.mdt.mt.gov/mdt/comment_form.shtml, noting comments are for project UPN 6201000. Alternative accessible formats of pertinent information will be provided upon request.