The second phase of a major construction project on U.S. Highway 93 in Whitefish was scheduled to begin on July 14, with plans to finish the project by July 2015.
The first phase of the Montana Department of Transportation project began last April and focused on the stretch of Highway 93 between Baker Avenue and Karrow Avenue, improving infrastructure – including replacing the bridge over the Whitefish River – and making the road safer for motorists and pedestrians.
MDT reported on July 7 that the first phase was close to completion, with chip sealing, sweeping and striping as the final pieces of the project.
For the second phase, crews from Schellinger Construction will work from Karrow Avenue to Mountainside Drive, building improvements for the road and infrastructure, such as the addition of bike paths and sidewalks. Additionally, Schellinger will be installing a new storm drain system, water system and sanitary sewer system as part of the project.
This phase of the Highway 93 improvement project is expected to take until next July, according to the construction company, with work anticipated on Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. During construction hours, traffic will occasionally be reduced to one lane, which may create increased traffic, delays, temporary loss of access and detours for adjacent residents and businesses.
The construction company and the City of Whitefish held an informational meeting about phase two on July 10, and residents came prepared with questions about access, Schellinger representative Courtenay Sprunger said.
“Most people came with the purpose of gathering information and understanding the impacts of the roadways they are living on,” Sprunger said.
Schellinger is prepared for the enormity of the project, she said, and is prepared to answer the public’s questions and concerns about construction. Anyone with questions or comments can contact Marc Blanden at 406-253-3730 or 406-892-2188.