Study Focus

In response to crash patterns identified on Montana Highway 84, the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is examining safety improvements for the Madison River corridor.

Montana Highway 84 is one of the primary ways that residents and tourists in the Gallatin Valley access the Madison River, one of the most well-known rivers in Montana. It is an important thoroughfare for some of Montana’s smaller communities, such as Norris and Ennis, to travel to the airport or commute to other business in nearby Bozeman. This hilly and curve-filled two-lane highway has experienced more crashes on it than the statewide average for similar highways.

To bring Vision Zero to a reality along this corridor, MDT is conducting the Highway 84 - East of Norris Corridor Study and is exploring all feasible solutions.

MDT has thousands of miles of roads to manage and has engaged transportation experts who are experienced in conducting studies to explore all options and identify the most cost-effective solutions. For this study, MDT has hired consultant Morrison-Maierle to explore and identify the best solutions for Montana Highway 84.

Project Map

Highway 84 - East of Norris Corridor Study project map

Click to view a larger image.

Why are we doing a corridor study?

Corridor studies are conducted early on and can help inform future projects. Once a roadway with a traffic problem is identified, a study is conducted to examine possible solutions to the problem. For a highway with a high number of crashes such Montana Highway 84, this process is especially critical. We not only need to consider how to solve the current need; we have to consider roadway function years into the future.

Without thorough study, the solution for Montana Highway 84 might only address a part of the roadway, not solving a larger problem. If the larger problem isn’t solved, more construction and maintenance could be needed sooner. A careful and strategic approach to updating this corridor is needed to maximize cost-effectiveness.

A long-term and sustainable solution has not yet been identified for Montana Highway 84. In carefully assessing the problem and seeking the best option, MDT is reaching out to those who live, work, and play in this area.

Are you a regular user of the Madison River? Do you make the drive on Highway 84 as part of your daily commute? MDT wants to hear your opinions on a safer roadway.

Your feedback is essential. Public input helps shape every project at MDT. We strongly encourage the public to get involved so that together, we move forward with the best solution for the drivers of this corridor.

In addition to sharing your thoughts with us, it is our goal to ensure you know how this project is advancing. Questions or comments can be sent to MDT via:

  • Email: Contact Becca via email to subscribe for updates, ask questions, or submit a comment
  • Project hotline: 406-207-4484, operating Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.