South side of the Underpass Intersection along Underpass Avenue and Laurel Road
North side of the Underpass Intersection along Central Avenue and 6th Street West
Construction is planned to begin on the Underpass Avenue/State Avenue and the 6th Street West/Central Avenue intersections spring of 2023. This project will reconstruct the intersections to improve traffic operations and traveler safety for these important intersections in the south-central Billings area. The purpose of this project is to improve capacity and operations. Riverside Contracting Inc. will install an adequate drainage system to help keep the underpass location from flooding, and provide additional pedestrian accommodations while considering the urban nature of the area
The newly designed project incorporates new traffic signals, storm drain, lighting, improved pedestrian facilities, and upgraded signing to enhance these intersections, promote accessibility, and improve safety. After much review and public participation, the following improvements are planned to both fulfill traffic and pedestrian needs and community desires.
Project Map
Underpass Avenue/State Avenue Intersection Improvements:
- Dual southbound left turn lanes from 6th Street West
- Additional lanes on Underpass Avenue
- Additional pedestrian improvements
- Relocated pump house and new storm drain inlets
- New traffic signal and lighting
- Lighting under the MRL bridge for pedestrians/bicyclists
6th Street West/Central Avenue Intersection Improvements:
- Dual northbound left turn lanes from 6th Street West
- New traffic signal and lighting
- Additional pedestrian improvements
Other Project Improvements:
- Detention ponds for stormwater
- Full lane from Laurel Road westbound ramp to Moore Lane
- Connection to recent City of Billings project at Calhoun Lane
- Preservation of recent community murals in the underpass
The mural painted by Elyssa Leininger that extends along Underpass Avenue will be preserved through this project. (Photo courtesy of Elyssa Leininger)
UPN 8669001