Big Mountain Road pavement preservation project resumes

The Montana Department of Transportation, in partnership with Knife River, is resuming construction on Big Mountain Road north of Whitefish. 

Last summer, crews dug out the top layer of the roadway on two targeted segments of Big Mountain Road. This year, work will occur between Smith Road and Glades Drive and include pavement overlay activities and additional digouts for sections of the road that need repair. Construction is expected to begin in early June and continue through the fall.  

“As we improve Big Mountain Road with a larger pavement overlay, we appreciate your continued understanding and patience during construction,” said Bob Vosen, MDT Missoula District Administrator. “Keeping everyone safe is our top priority as we work to complete construction on this highly traveled roadway.”

Pavement overlay is a road maintenance technique that involves applying a new layer of asphalt over the existing pavement. Digouts are a localized repair that involves digging out an area of damaged pavement. Additional work will include digging out the top layer of roadway and grading and repairing select areas of the roadway identified as needing additional structural support to extend its service life.   

Travelers will be directed to one-lane traffic via flaggers and pilot cars. Expect reduced speeds and delays. Cyclists and motorcyclists are encouraged to use extreme caution. 

“MDT and Knife River are committed to another safe and successful construction season on the Big Mountain pavement preservation project,” said Kurtis Paulson, with Knife River. “We encourage drivers and cyclists to stay alert when traveling through active work zones.” 

For more information about the Big Mountain Road project, including construction schedules and updates, visit https://www.mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/bigmountain/.