The Montana Department of Transportation is seeking public comment on a proposal to reconstruct about 10 miles of MT-80, southeast of Fort Benton. The project begins about 2.4 miles southeast of Fort Benton, at milepost 4.7, and extends 10 miles to Frenchman Ridge Road at milepost 14.7.
The highway will be reconstructed with wider shoulders and a new alignment that will straighten the curve at milepost 8.5. Proposed work includes earthwork, drainage, gravel, plant mix surfacing, chip seal, rumble strips and new signing and pavement markings, according to a MDT release.
The purpose of the project is to improve the safety and efficiency of the route by bringing the design up to current standards, including wider shoulders and smoother roadway ditches, according to the release.
Construction is tentatively planned for 2026 depending on completion of design and availability of funds. New right-of-way and relocation of utilities will be required. MDT staff will contact all potentially affected landowners prior to performing survey work on their land. Landowners will be contacted prior to construction regarding property acquisition and temporary construction permits.
Comments may be submitted online or in writing to Montana Department of Transportation, Great Falls office at PO Box 1359, Great Falls, MT 59403-1359. Note that comments are for project UPN 9721000.
Contact Great Falls District Preconstruction Engineer Steve Prinzing or District Projects Engineer Christie McOmber at 406454‑5880 for additional information.
Alternative accessible formats of this document will be provided on request. Persons who need an alternative format should contact the Human Resources and Occupational Safety Division, Department of Transportation, 2701 Prospect Avenue, PO Box 201001, Helena, MT 59620. Telephone 406-444-9229. Those using a TTY may call 1(800)335-7592 or through the Montana Relay Service at 711.
