Roadway improvement work is set to begin this month along a busy stretch of U.S. Highway 2 near Essex as transportation officials move forward with a major pavement preservation effort designed to improve safety, extend the life of the roadway, and reduce the need for more costly repairs in the future.
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), working alongside Schellinger Construction, announced that construction activities for the Stanton–Essex Pavement Preservation project will start in June. The project will focus on approximately 12 miles of U.S. Highway 2, beginning near Stanton Creek and continuing southeast to an area just beyond the Middle Fork Flathead River bridge.
Officials say the work is intended to improve driving conditions while preserving an important transportation corridor used by residents, visitors, and commercial traffic traveling through the region.
Improvements Planned Along 12 Miles Of Highway
The project includes a wide range of upgrades aimed at maintaining the roadway and improving safety for motorists.
Construction crews will mill and replace sections of asphalt before applying a seal and cover treatment, commonly known as a chip seal. Additional improvements will include the installation of rumble strips, repairs to bridges within the project area, updated pavement markings, and upgrades to guardrail infrastructure.
Transportation officials noted that pavement preservation projects are an important investment because they help maintain roads before significant deterioration occurs. By addressing roadway wear early, agencies can avoid larger reconstruction costs and reduce future disruptions to traffic.
The work is expected to continue for roughly six months, although weather conditions and other unforeseen factors could affect the schedule. Construction crews are anticipated to operate primarily during daytime hours while active work is underway.
Drivers Should Expect Delays
Motorists traveling through the corridor during construction should prepare for temporary traffic impacts.
According to MDT, drivers can expect single-lane closures, reduced speed limits, and minor delays while crews complete various phases of the project. Officials are encouraging travelers to allow extra time when passing through the area and to remain attentive to changing traffic conditions.
Drivers are also being asked to obey posted signs, watch for construction equipment, and stay alert for workers operating near the roadway.
State transportation officials emphasized that while temporary inconveniences are expected, the improvements will provide long-term benefits by enhancing safety, improving ride quality, and helping preserve one of the region’s key transportation routes.
Those seeking additional information about the Stanton–Essex Pavement Preservation project can contact Stephanie Sampson at [email protected] or call 406-207-4484 Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
