Project Overview

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is designing safety enhancements for the Applegate Drive and Lincoln Road intersection in the Helena valley. The purpose of the project is to enhance safety features and improve traffic operations at the intersection.

MDT evaluated several options for improving this intersection including traffic signals and a four-way stop. Ultimately, MDT determined that the intersection would benefit most from a roundabout design.

Depending on the availability of funding, construction of the project is anticipated to begin in summer 2026.

Planned Improvements

Based on statewide safety data, a traffic analysis, and input from the community, MDT determined that the intersection at Applegate Drive and Lincoln Road would benefit most from a single-lane roundabout design.

The single-lane roundabout design plans include:

• 12-foot travel lanes and 2-foot shoulders
• An 18-foot-wide “truck apron,” which is a slightly raised surface that allows large trucks to make turns
• Pedestrian crossings
• Lighting, curb, gutters, and no-maintenance landscaping in the center median
• A 15-mph target speed entering the roundabout

UPN 9188000