Project Overview

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and its partners, the City of Kalispell and contractor Schellinger Construction, are improving the intersection of 2nd Street East/Conrad Drive with Woodland Avenue by constructing a single-lane roundabout.

The project is designed to enhance safety by reducing the frequency and severity of crashes, while improving traffic flow through the intersection.

Timeline:
Updated on 8/13/26

• Preparatory work began on July 21, 2026
• On Monday, August 10, the intersection was closed to all traffic
  It will remain closed throughout construction. Closing the area ensures safer, faster, and more efficient work within the limited project area
• Crews plan to complete much of the work during the 2026 construction season and reopen the intersection to traffic by the end of the year
• The project is anticipated to be fully completed by fall 2027

Detour Routes
Updated on 8/13/26

Detour and alternate route signage is in place to guide drivers around the closure. Access to nearby properties will be maintained. Detour routes include:

• Traffic traveling south and east of the closure will be directed to use 10th Street East, Willow Glen Drive, and Woodland Park Drive
• Traffic traveling west and north of the closure will be directed to use 2nd Street East, 4th Avenue East, and East Idaho Street (U.S. Highway 2)
• “No Thru Traffic” signs are posted on College Avenue and Sylvan Drive. Access to these roads is limited to area residents, business patrons, and the Woodland Montessori School community

Why a Roundabout?

MDT and the City of Kalispell evaluated multiple options to improve the intersection of 2nd Street East, Conrad Drive, and Woodland Avenue and decided to construct a single-lane roundabout. A roundabout:

• Fits within the public right-of-way.
• Enhances intersection safety.
  • Improves visibility of oncoming vehicles from all approaches.
  • Reduces the number of vehicle conflict points.
  • Slows traffic speeds through the intersection.
• Improves pedestrian and bicycle crossings.
  • Shorter crossing distances and fewer conflict points increase safety and comfort.
• Improves traffic flow.
  • Keeps vehicles moving with fewer stops and reduced delays.
• Allows larger vehicles, including school buses and trucks with trailers, to safely maneuver through the intersection using a truck apron.
• Provides long-term value as a cost-effective solution designed to efficiently handle projected traffic volumes for at least the next 20 years without significant additional investment.

Additionally, this intersection is part of an emergency route and is maintained by the City of Kalispell.