What work is scheduled to occur near Choteau?
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is currently redesigning two segments of US Highway 89 (US 89) near Choteau while a third segment, Choteau-North, was completed in 2025. The following improvements can be expected:
- Repaving operations.
- This project will address sharp curves and steep roadside slopes to enhance roadway safety features.
- Widening roadway shoulders to improve traffic flow.
- Some pullouts will be upgraded and may be used to view wildlife.
- The Teton River Bridge will be replaced.
Where is work occurring?
All work will take place outside of the Choteau city limits.
- Choteau-South is a segment that begins just south of the Choteau city limits and extends south for about six miles.
- Freezeout Lake is a segment just south of Choteau-South and extends about six miles.
Why are there three segments?
Each segment is funded differently and therefore completed at different times.
When will construction occur?
Construction on the segment north of Choteau occurred in 2024 and 2025. Construction on segment two is tentatively scheduled to occur in 2026 and 2027 and construction on segment three is expected for 2029. All work is dependent on the weather and other factors.
Will US 89 be closed during construction?
No, MDT will maintain US 89 access during construction. Once construction begins, motorists should anticipate traffic control and possible delays when traveling through the project area.
How much will this project cost?
Estimated costs for all MDT projects are on the active projects website at https://bit.ly/mtactiveprojects.
The construction contract for Choteau-North was awarded to Riverside Contracting Inc. at $10,899,320.56.
The rough engineer’s estimate is $25 million for Choteau-South and $15 million for Freezeout Lake.
What phase is the project currently in?
The Choteau-South segment will be let for bid on November 13, 2025 and construction is expected to begin in 2026.