US Highway 191 Project Update

Mother Nature roared her head and let this part of the country know that she still has an opinion...and it counts! Furthermore, it trumps plans made by many people. The huge excavators, bulldozers and scrapers are now sitting alongside the construction site as Wickens Construction decides whether to close up the project for the year or hold off and wait for the sun to come out tomorrow. Time will tell.

As of now, the wheels are sitting, covered with snow, as were vehicles across the town for homeowners without garages.

This reporter had an update to some questions posed to the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), and with that information an update is ready to share.

A little history behind US 191, for those who weren't around, or aren't around now to see the changes. The portion of US 191 was originally constructed in the 1940's. As per the MDT "...the roadway is narrow with no shoulders and steep-side slopes. The pavement is also beyond its service life. Rehabilitation is part of a long-term effort to bring US 191 up to current design criteria."

The makings of the update/repair/upgrade for Hwy 191 South has been in the development and working stages since 2012. It is a three-year project, so completion is expected to be in the fall of 2025.

Throughout the various stages of the project, there will be flaggers and signals controlling the movement of traffic, single-lane restrictions, and reduced speed limits. Drivers can expect 10 to 15 minute delays, so anticipate such and plan travel through the area accordingly. Sheriff Jerry Lytle spoke at the City Council meeting on Oct. 24th and stated a driver had called in regarding (the imposition of the delay) the fact that he had been waiting for FIVE minutes! Plan to obey the laws.

The project budget for US 191 was $24,427,290. As many have stated on social media, the upgrade was long overdue. Unfortunately, for those on social media, the project only covers approximately eleven miles south, and that is not anywhere near the hoped for target of some, being Billings.

Wickens Construction is the main contractor, and there are eleven subcontractors on this particular job. It was reported that there are at least seven females operating equipment on the site in this phase.

As the rocks are unearthed, they will be used for rip rap to protect the creek beds from erosion. Anyone with interest in any rocks for landscaping are directed to contact Wickens Construction.

Another chapter in the history is being charted. A small bit of history in the big scheme of things, however a vital part of what makes us happy to live in Phillips County, Montana.