State wraps up Kalispell ADA sidewalk projects

All of the major Kalispell American Disabilities Act construction projects have been completed, and traffic lanes are now open in all three zones, the Montana Department of Transportation said.

“Completion of this project means more than just new sidewalk corners,” District 1 Construction Engineer John Schmidt said. “Upgraded sidewalk ramps mean greater access for people of all abilities.”

The Kalispell ADA project included installation of updated ramp devices called truncated domes. These devices are metal plates with raised bumps and are easily detected by a cane or foot. Truncated domes alert a pedestrian they have reached a street corner.

Curb cuts at sidewalk corners were also updated to meet current ADA guidelines. Curb cuts make it easier for wheeled devices to transition between the street and the sidewalk. These ramps ensure greater access for individuals with disabilities, but also offer benefits for users on bicycles, pushing strollers and carts, or operating a hand truck.

Construction began in June and was conducted in three zones. The first zone included improvements to sidewalk corners on Idaho Street between First Avenue West North and Eighth Avenue West North. Work on zone two began in July and included upgrades to sidewalk ramps on both sides of Idaho Street between Main Street and Seventh Avenue East North. The final section of the project began at the intersection of U.S 93. and U.S. 2 and continued along U.S. 93 from First Avenue East to Kelly Road.

A few project odds and ends remain for the 2022 construction season. New pedestrian crossing buttons will be installed in multiple locations. This work is materials dependent and will be completed as soon as supplies become available. No traffic impacts are anticipated during installation. Crews will return in the spring to apply permanent epoxy paint to the new sidewalk corners and minimal traffic impacts are possible.

Anyone with questions about this project may visit the project webpage at https://www.mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/kalispellada/ or email Kristine Fife at kristine@bigskypublicrelations.com.