Kalispell’s Reserve Drive, a vital corridor connecting Hutton Ranch Road to Whitefish Stage Road, is currently undergoing a major expansion and improvement project aimed at addressing the increasing traffic volumes in the area. This initiative, a collaboration between the City of Kalispell and the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), aims to enhance safety, ease congestion, and accommodate future growth in the rapidly developing region.
Project Overview
The Reserve Drive project is set to widen the roadway from three lanes to five lanes, including a center turn lane to improve traffic flow. Additionally, the project includes significant updates to infrastructure that will benefit both motorists and pedestrians. The Stillwater River Bridge deck will be replaced, with sidewalks added to improve non-motorized accessibility. New traffic signals, turn lanes, and concrete surfacing will be installed at the intersections of Hutton Ranch Road and Whitefish Stage Road.
The expansion is a response to the increasing traffic in the area, as Kalispell was named one of the fastest growing micropolitan areas in the United States. With the population growth and rising demand for commercial and residential space in the region, the need for an upgraded transportation system has become crucial. The project also includes the addition of a shared-use path, improving pedestrian and cyclist access along the corridor.
Timeline and Funding
The design phase of the Reserve Drive project kicked off in 2023, and construction is expected to continue through 2024 and potentially into 2025, depending on weather conditions and other unforeseen factors. The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded Kalispell a $25 million Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant to help fund the construction. Additional funding has been secured from Montana’s Surface Transportation Program and the SAFER Montana Roads and Bridges Fund, bringing the total budget to over $40 million.
Traffic Impact and Public Involvement
The construction is expected to cause disruptions to traffic flow, particularly as the road is expanded from three to five lanes. Drivers can expect lane closures, reduced speed limits, and potential detours throughout the duration of the project. However, local officials have emphasized that the design-build process allows for flexibility and innovation in managing traffic disruptions during construction.
The MDT and city officials are actively working to keep the public informed about the project’s progress. Regular updates will be provided via mail, news releases, and public meetings. Community members can also sign up for email or text updates to stay informed on construction timelines, traffic impacts, and other important developments.
Long-Term Benefits
Once completed, the Reserve Drive expansion will significantly reduce congestion along one of Kalispell’s busiest corridors. The addition of turn lanes and traffic signals is expected to improve safety, while the inclusion of pedestrian paths and sidewalks will offer alternative transportation options for residents and visitors. These improvements aim to future-proof Reserve Drive, ensuring it can accommodate continued growth and development in the region.
In summary, the Reserve Drive project is a major infrastructure initiative that will not only alleviate current traffic issues but also support Kalispell’s ongoing growth. Though the construction will bring short-term inconveniences, the long-term benefits promise a safer, more efficient roadway for all users.