Hwy. 93 Ronan project in full swing

The Montana Department of Transportation and Riverside Contracting are taking advantage of the improving weather conditions by continuing work on the Ronan-North U.S. Highway 93 (US 93) project.

Last Tuesday morning, water and fiber lines were damaged during construction, resulting in a disruption of internet and water services in the area and a closure of the intersection of U.S. 93 and the old highway. While services were restored late Tuesday afternoon, there was limited construction activity for the remainder of the week.

This week, however, the project is in full swing. Crews began installing a storm drain on the west side of U.S. 93 Monday, and slope work is underway at the north end of the project at Baptiste Road.

Riverside Contracting will continue milling operations and intersection improvements at Old U.S. 93, 3rd Ave. and U.S. 93. Crews will be on-site through Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., weather permitting. Drivers should expect traffic flaggers to intermittently control traffic at the U.S. 93 and Round Butte Road intersection.

Watch for road alignment and marking changes from Round Butte Road to just past the Pierce car dealership. Drivers should anticipate traveling on a gravel surface and up to 15-minute delays due to lane closures. Left turns will be prohibited in certain areas.

The planned permanent closure of Spring Creek Road at U.S. 93 is scheduled for Thursday, May 11. To access the Spring Creek Road area after that date, drivers should use Old U.S. 93 or Mud Creek Road as an alternate route.

The highway department advises drivers to remember the three Ss of work zone safety when traveling through the construction zone: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits; leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you; and keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.