February 24, 2024

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) invites the public to attend two in-person open houses for the Kalispell-Whitefish Access Plan. The purpose of these events is to inform the community about access management options, explain the plan’s goals and objectives, and offer opportunities for the public to provide feedback.

The Kalispell-Whitefish Access Plan will inform the development of access points (entrances or exits such as driveways or intersections) on the US Highway 93 (US 93) corridor connecting Kalispell and extending west of Whitefish.

All comments gathered during these sessions will help shape the direction of the Kalispell-Whitefish Access Plan.

Open House Details:

March Open House
Date: March 11
Time: 4 to 6 p.m.
Location: Easthaven Baptist Church

May Open House
Date: May 27
Time: 4 to 6 p.m.
Location: Whitefish City Hall

Open House Display Boards

Click images to expand.

Image of welcome board
Welcome board - Welcome board with QR code linking to the Kalispell–Whitefish project website. Includes contact info for public inquiries: stephanieXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom, project hotline 406-207-4484 (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.), website link mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/kalispellwhitefish/public-involvement.aspx, and text keyword KALWHITEACCESS to 41411.
Access Management Plan Development and Implementation display board
Access Management Plan Development and Implementation - Graphic outlining project development and implementation steps. Includes: data collection on traffic patterns and land use; drafting access plans and recommendations; stakeholder meetings; public and agency feedback; and a final plan to guide future access improvements based on funding and growth.
Understanding Access Management display board
Understanding Access Management - Graphic explaining access management. States the primary goal is to provide safe, efficient property access while maintaining traffic flow and reducing vehicle conflicts. Key component: separating turning vehicles from through traffic to minimize conflict points.
Access Management Methods display boards
Access Management Methods - Map illustrating the functional areas of an intersection, highlighting access management methods: maintain adequate spacing, separate or restrict turning movements using raised medians or turn lanes, and apply intersection control strategies.
Access Management Strategies display boards
Access Management Strategies - Map showing access management strategies along a corridor. Strategies include eliminating or consolidating access points, providing alternate access via frontage roads or side streets, defining approach openings, and limiting new access.

With questions about this project or other area MDT projects, please email Stephanie at stephanieXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. All are also welcome to call the project hotline Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 406-207-4484.