Project Overview
What is the Kagy Boulevard and Sourdough Road Intersection Improvements project?
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), in partnership with the City of Bozeman and Sanbell, is designing improvements at the Kagy Boulevard and Sourdough Road intersection in Bozeman to enhance safety and improve accessibility.
What improvements are proposed?
The project includes a new traffic signal, LED street lighting, new curb and gutter, improved sidewalks, and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant pedestrian ramps.
When will construction take place?
Construction is tentatively scheduled for 2028. This timeline depends on design completion, project scheduling, funding availability, and unforeseen factors.
Who will be the contractor for the project?
The project is anticipated to be advertised in 2027. Contractors can then submit bids, and MDT will award the project to the selected contractor.
Project Design
Why is a traffic signal proposed instead of a roundabout?
MDT and the City of Bozeman evaluated several alternatives, including a roundabout. This evaluation found that a roundabout was not feasible at this location due to space constraints, right-of-way limitations, and topography. A traffic signal was then identified as the preferred alternative.
Has a traffic study been completed?
The project team reviewed the intersection, including crash history, and evaluated potential improvements using relevant data and evaluation criteria. The review supported installing a traffic signal as the preferred improvement.
Speed was not identified as a contributing factor in the crash history. As such, a separate speed study was not conducted for this project.
Will a change to the speed limit be included in this project?
No. A speed limit change is not included in this project. Speed limits are established through a separate process that begins at the local level. Residents should first seek support from their city or county government, which can then submit a request to the appropriate MDT District Office.
Upon request from local jurisdictions, MDT will conduct a speed study that considers speed, crash, and citation data, roadway characteristics, and adjacent land uses. The study recommendations are presented to the local government for a 60-day review and comment period. After addressing any comments, MDT presents the proposed speed limit to the Governor-appointed Transportation Commission, which has final authority over speed limits.
A typical speed study takes about one year from the initial request to Transportation Commission action, and requests are generally handled on a first-come, first-served basis.
How will the traffic signal operate?
The signal will be timed based on traffic patterns along the corridor using traffic counts collected for the project. Vehicle detection will be provided on each approach, allowing the signal to respond to traffic and provide green time as needed.
Will the project include turn lanes or a merge lane?
Community members have suggested additional turn lanes and merging lanes, including a right-turn lane from northbound Sourdough Road and turn or merge lanes on Kagy Boulevard, Sourdough Road, and Church Avenue. The project team is reviewing this feedback as design progresses. Additional turn lanes are not currently part of the proposed project improvements.
How is the project addressing winter driving conditions at the intersection?
Several community members have raised concerns about winter driving conditions at the intersection, including difficulty stopping on the downhill approach and getting started on the uphill grade when roads are icy or snow-covered. MDT is aware of these concerns and will consider them as design progresses. Other intersections in Bozeman with similar grades currently operate successfully with traffic signals, and this intersection is expected to function similarly during winter conditions. The City of Bozeman will also enhance winter maintenance efforts in the area.
Who is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Kagy Boulevard and Sourdough Road intersection?
The City of Bozeman is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the intersection at Kagy Boulevard and Sourdough Road. If you have any questions regarding the operation or maintenance of this intersection, please contact the City of Bozeman Streets Division at 406-582-3200.
Will additional right-of-way be needed to complete the project?
It is not anticipated that additional right-of-way will be needed for the project at this time.
Pedestrians, Bicyclists and Accessibility
How will pedestrians cross the intersection?
Pedestrians will cross at the traffic signal, which will have pedestrian signal heads and pedestrian push buttons to accommodate crossing the intersection. The current project plans do not include separate flashing crosswalk lights.
Will there be flashing pedestrian lights in addition to the traffic signal?
Pedestrians will cross at the traffic signal. The current project plans do not include separate flashing crosswalk lights.
How will bicyclists be accommodated?
The existing bike lanes on Kagy Boulevard will be continued through the project area.
Streetlights
Will the new streetlights use LED technology?
Yes. The project will include LED street lighting that meets MDT and City of Bozeman standards.
Why are LED lights being proposed?
LED lighting uses more than 50% less energy than traditional bulbs, costs less to operate, and lasts longer. LED fixtures can also more precisely direct light. The proposed LEDs will provide a warmer color and improved color quality.
Will the new lighting increase light pollution or glare?
The proposed lighting is designed to reduce glare and limit unwanted light spill. The fixtures will be designed to avoid directing light upward and will meet City of Bozeman street-lighting standards.
Project Funding
How is the project being funded?
The final project cost will be determined as design progresses and details are finalized.
| Funding Source | Amount |
|---|---|
| Carbon Reduction Program | $1,046,000 |
| Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) | $812,000 |
| City of Bozeman Local Funds | $85,000 |
| Estimated Project Cost | $1,943,000 |
Carbon Reduction Program
Provides federal funding to support transportation projects that reduce emissions and improve transportation system efficiency.
Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP)
Provides federal funding for projects that reduce serious injuries and fatalities at locations with higher-severity crashes.
Public Involvement
Was there a public open house?
Yes. MDT held an open house Monday, Aug. 24, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Valley View Golf Club. There was no formal presentation. Attendees could review project information, talk with the project team, and provide comments.
What if I could not attend the open house?
Open house materials are available on the project webpage under the Public Involvement section. The public is encouraged to submit questions and comments as the project moves forward.
How can I provide a comment or ask a question?
Questions and comments can be submitted by email to Sloane at
Where can I find more information?
Visit MDT's Kagy Boulevard and Sourdough Road Intersection Improvements project webpage at mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/kagysourdough.