Why the project is needed?

The north valley outside of Helena has experienced rapid growth in recent years due in part to development activity and changes in land use. Traffic volumes have been increasing rapidly near the I 15 Lincoln Road Interchange. The area is currently experiencing heavy vehicle congestion during the peak hours and traffic is expected to more than double over the next 20 years due to continued development. If remained unchanged, increasing vehicle delay and safety issues are likely to compound.

In addition, the project will address the large number and type of intersection-related crashes occurring in this area. From 2003 until 2013 a total of 59 crashes occurred within the project area. A majority of crashes occurring in the corridor involved more than one vehicle and were a rear end or right-angle collision.