Belgrade, Montana – Motorists traveling along Interstate 90 between Belgrade and Bozeman will soon encounter temporary traffic changes as the final stages of a major roadway improvement project move forward.
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) announced that crews are scheduled to begin applying a seal and cover, also known as a chip seal, on July 23. If weather conditions remain favorable and no unexpected issues arise, the work is expected to take about one week to complete.
During this phase, drivers should prepare for single-lane traffic in both directions along the affected section of I-90. Reduced speed limits will also be in place to help protect workers and allow the newly applied road surface to cure properly.
Final construction work shifts to daytime hours
Officials explained that most of the construction completed so far has taken place overnight to reduce disruptions for travelers. However, the chip seal process cannot be performed at night because it requires warmer daytime temperatures to harden correctly.
Once the chip seal has been placed, crews will continue with several finishing tasks. These include painting temporary roadway stripes and clearing away loose stone left behind after the treatment.
Project leaders also said construction teams plan to return 30 to 45 days later after the chip seal has fully cured. At that time, workers will install permanent epoxy pavement markings, completing one of the final steps of the project.
The work is being carried out through a partnership between the Montana Department of Transportation and Riverside Contracting Inc.
The project stretches from the east end of the Belgrade Airway Boulevard Interchange at Exit 299 to the North Rouse Avenue railroad overpass in Bozeman.
According to transportation officials, the goal of the improvements is to extend the roadway’s service life while also making travel safer throughout the corridor.
The project has included resurfacing the highway by milling the existing pavement before adding a new asphalt overlay and finishing it with a chip seal. Crews have also upgraded pavement markings, installed improved road signs, enhanced guardrails, and completed minor bridge improvements along the route.
With construction now entering its final stages, MDT is asking motorists to slow down, remain alert in work zones, and expect brief delays while crews complete the remaining work. Once the finishing touches are complete, the improvements are expected to provide a smoother ride and increased safety for everyone traveling between Belgrade and Bozeman.
