Traffic delays expected in Whitefish as road project begins

Travelers and commuters using Spokane Avenue in Whitefish should expect delays beginning this week as the Spokane Avenue Water Main Replacement Project is set to begin.

The project will consist of replacing the existing cast iron water main along Spokane Avenue from 13th Street to East Second Street. Phase one of the project will go from September through October 2022. The second phase will be completed in the spring.

Construction will begin at 13th Street and continue north. Property and business access will be maintained with two-way, one-lane traffic during both phases, but delays should be expected.

Construction of phase one of the project will is scheduled to be completed sometime in October. Construction will begin for phase two in March 2023 and the water main construction will be finished by June of 2023, according to the press release. Between phases, the road will be repaved and reopened for the winter.

The schedule is yet to be determined for the Montana Department of Transportation repaving project but phase one construction is expected to end at Spokane Avenue and Sixth Street this fall. Phase two spring construction is anticipated to proceed from Spokane Avenue and Fifth Street north to Spokane Avenue and East Second Street depending on progress and weather.

The release states water service lines affected by the construction will also be replaced. Temporary water supply will be provided to those affected. Replacement of curb stops and fire hydrants will be required within the project limits. Additionally, reconstruction at intersections of Spokane Avenue with Fourth Street and Fifth Street with ADA upgrades will be implemented.

Morrison-Maierle is providing engineering services and Sandry Construction is the contractor for the City of Whitefish Water Main Replacement Project. For questions or concerns regarding construction, contact Ben Miller at bmiller@m-m.net or by cell at 406-261-5154.