Choteau US 89 project logo

Project Overview

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is currently redesigning three segments of US Highway 89 (US 89) near Choteau.

All three segments will have similar improvements. The updated design will improve the overall alignment. All segments will be repaved. The curves will be gentler and roadside slopes will be less steep. The shoulders will become slightly larger. There will be more passing opportunities. The Teton River bridge will also be replaced.

Specific roadway improvements include:

  1. Updated design.
    Improve the alignment and pavement.
  2. New bridge.
    Upgrade the bridge over the Teton River.
  3. Passing opportunities.
    Provide more options for passing slow vehicles.
  4. Wider shoulders.
    Create more space along the highway which also means a larger buffer for bicyclists.
  5. Gentler curves.
    Reduce the sharpness of the existing curves.
  6. Wildlife pullouts.
    Places to stop and view the wildlife in the Freezout Lake Wildlife Management Area.
  7. Resetting two historical markers:
    a. Old Agency on the Teton.
    b. Blackfeet and Buffalo.
  8. Updating signage and pavement markings.
  9. Rumble strips.
    Place rumble strips on the shoulders next to the lane edge and between lanes.
  10. Improving drainage.

Choteau US 89 map depicting the construction segments. Map depicting the construction segments.

Purpose & Benefits

The US 89 corridor has been scheduled for reconstruction to better accommodate the array of uses (recreation and passenger vehicles, trucks, and bicycles). The following key factors will be addressed:

  • Outdated design standards.
  • Limited passing opportunities.
  • Narrow shoulders.
  • Sharp roadway curves.
  • Poor traffic flow.
  • Moderate-to-high potential for crashes.

Teton River Bridge

The Teton River Bridge was available for adoption and relocation to interested public and/or private entities. No applications were received by the deadline of February 18, 2025.

Project Status and Anticipated Timeline

2020-2021: Design and information gathering.
2022-2026: On-going design, permitting, and property acquisition.
2024-2025: Expected construction for Choteau-North.
2026-2027: Expected construction for Choteau-South.
2029: Expected construction for Freezeout Lake.

How You Can Participate

The Montana Department of Transportation recognizes the impact road projects can have. We are committed to keeping the public informed during the process.

Subscribe to get construction updates and traffic information.

Text: "Choteau" to 844-764-2126*
Email: Choteau@kljeng.com
Online: Fill out the Comment Form.
Indicate Comments are for project UPN 8965000

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UPN 8965000