Underpass Avenue - Construction Updates

December 19, 2023

Looking south, the new northbound and eastbound travel lanes on 6th Street West lead up to the intersection with Central Avenue.

Project Updates:

• Signage installation is complete.
• The old stormwater pump station has been demolished, excavated, and removed.
• The City of Billings is working with MDT to update the timing on the traffic signals at the intersections of Central Avenue with 6th Street West and State Avenue with Underpass Avenue.

Work Anticipated in Spring/Summer 2024:

• Crews will return in the spring to seal and cover (chip seal) the new asphalt and apply permanent pavement markings with reflective epoxy paint.
• Permanent traffic signal posts will be installed.
• Artist Elyssa Leininger will complete touch-ups on the “Rise and Shine” mural. The mural will then be protected with an anti-graffiti coating.

This is the last website update of 2023 for the Underpass Avenue – Billings project. Project updates will resume next year when crews return to complete the work listed above. We appreciate your patience and cooperation and hope you have a safe holiday!

December 6, 2023

Looking south, the new northbound and eastbound travel lanes on 6th Street West lead up to the intersection with Central Avenue.

Work in progress:

• Construction of the concrete medians and remaining sidewalks near the 6th Street West with Central Avenue intersection is complete. Three-foot tall reflective safety markers have been installed at each end of the medians.
• Directional signs have been installed on the traffic signal posts.
• The new stormwater pump station is now operational; the old stormwater pump station has been deactivated.
• The City of Billings is working with MDT to update the timing on the traffic signals at the intersections of Central Avenue with 6th Street West and State Avenue with Underpass Avenue.

Upcoming Work:

• Removal of the old stormwater pump station.
• Replacing vegetation that was disturbed in areas around the new and old stormwater pump stations.
• Installation of remaining signage.

Work Anticipated in Spring/Summer 2024:

• Crews will return in the spring to seal and cover (chip seal) the new asphalt and apply permanent pavement markings with reflective epoxy paint.
• Permanent traffic signal posts will be installed.
• Artist Elyssa Leininger will complete touch-ups on the “Rise and Shine” mural. The mural will then be protected with an anti-graffiti coating.

Travel Advisories:

• Watch for changing traffic control: As work continues, please use caution, follow traffic control, and be aware of workers near the roadway.
• Be aware of new pavement markings: New turn lanes have been added on Underpass Avenue and in the northbound lanes of 6th Street West leading up to the Central Avenue intersection. Please pay attention to the new pavement markings and directional signage when traveling through the project area.

Looking south, the new northbound and eastbound travel lanes on 6th Street West lead up to the intersection with Central Avenue.

November 30, 2023

Work in progress:

• The traffic signals at the State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection are now operational. This includes the pedestrian crossing.
• Raised concrete medians are being constructed on 6th Street West.
• A section of State Avenue leading up to Laurel Road has been paved and widened.
• The temporary pedestrian crossings on Central Avenue and State Avenue have been removed as the new traffic signals are now operational.
• The new stormwater pump station passed quality testing and is now operational. The old stormwater pump station will be deactivated in early December.

Upcoming Work:

• Removal of the old stormwater pump station.
• Additional concrete work on the traffic signal post foundation on Central Avenue and the completion of sidewalks and raised medians.
• Directional signage will be installed in the coming weeks.

Work Anticipated in Spring/Summer 2024:

• Crews will return in the spring to seal and cover (chip seal) the new asphalt and apply permanent pavement markings with reflective epoxy paint.
• Permanent traffic signal posts will be installed.
• Artist Elyssa Leininger will complete touch-ups on the “Rise and Shine” mural. The mural will then be protected with an anti-graffiti coating.

A view from the southwest corner of the 6th Street West with Central Avenue intersection.

Travel Advisories:

• Central Avenue, State Avenue, and 6th Street West underpass: The intersections of Central Avenue with 6th Street West and State Avenue with Underpass Avenue are open to all directions of traffic.
• Signage not yet installed. Be aware of new pavement markings: New turn lanes have been added on Underpass Avenue and in the northbound lanes of 6th Street West leading up to the Central Avenue intersection. Please pay attention to the new pavement markings when traveling through the project area as directional signage has not yet been installed on the traffic signal posts.
• Watch for changing traffic control:As work continues, please use caution, follow traffic control, and be aware of workers in or near the roadway.

Crews installing curb and gutter on the northwest corner of the Central Avenue with 6th Street West intersection.

November 16, 2023

Work in progress:

• The traffic signals at the State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection were activated this week.
• The final section of concrete sidewalk is being poured this week.
• Milling and paving is expected to begin late this week and continue over the weekend.
• Electrical work is in progress to establish a service connection to the new stormwater pump station.

Work Anticipated in Spring/Summer 2024:

• Crews will return in the spring to seal and cover (chip seal) the new asphalt and apply permanent pavement markings with reflective epoxy paint.
• The old stormwater pump station will be removed.
• Artist Elyssa Leininger will complete touch-ups on the “Rise and Shine” mural. The mural will then be protected with an anti-graffiti coating.

The “Rise and Shine” mural, painted on the 6th Street West underpass was commissioned by the South Side Task Force in 2020.

Travel Advisories:

• Central Avenue intersection closure: This Central Avenue with 6th Street West intersection will be temporarily closed for paving from approximately Friday, November 17, through Monday, November 20.
• State Avenue intersection closure: The State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection will be temporarily closed for milling, paving, and electrical work from approximately Friday, November 17, through Monday, November 20.
• Weekend work: Crews will be working over the weekend. Please watch for changing traffic control, reduced speeds, and workers near the roadway.
• Business access: While milling and paving occurs, the Central Avenue approach to Albertsons will be temporarily blocked. Access to Albertsons and CVS is still available on 6th Street West and on St. Johns Avenue.
• Bus route detours: Due to the underpass closure, Billings MET Transit has rerouted the 9 Central and 19 The Loop bus routes. For help planning your trip, please call 406-657-8218 or click here for more information on bus routes.

November 13, 2023

Work in progress:

• Demolition is in progress on 6th Street West leading up to the intersection with Central Avenue. Once demolition is complete, crews will install road base to prepare for new asphalt surfaces.
• The new stormwater inlet on the south side of the 6th Street West underpass has been installed. Crews plan to pour concrete to connect the stormwater inlet to the roadway this week.
• New curb and gutter is being installed on the north side of Central Avenue, next to Albertsons. This work is expected to be completed this week. Once the concrete has been poured, it must cure for at least three days before paving can begin.
• While work is being completed on the north side of the 6th Street West underpass, access to Albertsons, CVS, and Scentry Biologicals Inc. is still available on Central Avenue. Additional access to Albertsons and CVS is available on 6th Street West and St. Johns Avenue.

Travel Advisories:

• Central Avenue with 6th Street West intersection: This intersection is temporarily closed to NB, SB, and EB traffic while resurfacing and electrical work is completed. Those traveling east on Central Avenue are advised to use 7th Street West as an alternate, NB route.
• Single-lane westbound traffic on Central Avenue: WB traffic has been reduced to a single lane between Montana Avenue and CVS. Please watch for changing traffic control, reduced speeds, and workers next to the roadway.
• Business access available during construction: While work is completed around the Central Avenue with 6th Street West intersection, business access to Albertsons and CVS is still available using Montana Avenue/Central Avenue, 6th Street West, and St. Johns Avenue.
• State Avenue intersection open to three-way traffic: The State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection is open to EB, WB, and SB traffic. The 6th Street West underpass will remain closed while crews install traffic signal posts at Central Avenue and resurface the roadway between State Avenue and Central Avenue. The underpass is anticipated to reopen by late November.
• *NEW* pedestrian crossing: The temporary pedestrian crossing near the Reno Club will remain active until resurfacing work is completed, traffic signals are connected, and pavement markings have been applied to the sidewalks. While work is being completed at the Central Avenue with 6th Street West intersection, a temporary pedestrian crossing has been added to provide walking access across Central Avenue, between Scentry Biologicals Inc. and CVS.
• Bus route detours: Due to the underpass closure, Billings MET Transit has rerouted the 9 Central and 19 The Loop bus routes. For help planning your trip, please call 406-657-8218 or click here for more information on bus routes.

November 1, 2023

Work in progress:

• Underpass Avenue has been resurfaced and widened as part of this project. It is now open to eastbound, westbound, and southbound traffic.
• Construction of the stormwater inlet at the south end of the 6th Street West underpass is nearing completion.
• Demolition is in progress on Access Street between Central Avenue and the 6th Street West underpass, in preparation for new asphalt and concrete surfaces.
• Crews continue working on the new stormwater pump station at the northeast corner of the State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection. Once the electrical service is connected, crews will cover and backfill the area where the new wet well and other pump station features are housed.

Travel Advisories:

• State Avenue intersection open to three-way traffic: The State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection is now open to eastbound, westbound, and southbound traffic. The 6th Street West underpass will remain closed while crews install traffic signal posts at Central Avenue and resurface the roadway between State Avenue and Central Avenue.
• Reduced traffic on Central Avenue: Due to the underpass closure, those traveling south from Central Avenue must use an alternate railroad crossing, such as Moore Lane (see map below). The Central Avenue with 6th Street West intersection is open to northbound, eastbound, and westbound traffic.
• *NEW* pedestrian crossing: The temporary pedestrian crossing near the Reno Club will remain active until resurfacing work is completed, traffic signals are connected, and pavement markings are applied to the sidewalks. While work is being completed at the Central Avenue with 6th Street West intersection, a temporary pedestrian crossing has been added to provide walking access across Central Avenue, between Scentry Biologicals Inc. and CVS.
• Bus route detours: Due to the underpass closure, Billings MET Transit has rerouted the 9 Central and 19 The Loop bus routes. For help planning your trip, please call 406-657-8218 or click here for more information on bus routes.

October 27, 2023

Work in progress:

• Construction of the stormwater inlet at the south end of the 6th Street West underpass is in progress.
• Underpass Avenue and State Avenue have been paved with new asphalt surfaces, which are being tested for quality.
• Demolition has begun on Access Street between Central Avenue and the 6th Street West underpass.
• Crews poured concrete to form the new, raised median on Underpass Avenue.

Travel Advisories:

• State Avenue intersection open to three-way traffic: The State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection is expected to reopen to eastbound, westbound, and southbound traffic early next week, weather permitting. The 6th Street West underpass will remain closed while crews install traffic signal posts at Central Avenue and resurface the roadway between State Avenue and Central Avenue.
• Reduced traffic on Central Avenue: Due to the underpass closure, those traveling south from Central Avenue must use an alternate railroad crossing, such as Moore Lane (see map below). The Central Avenue with 6th Street West intersection is open to northbound, eastbound, and westbound traffic.
• *NEW* pedestrian crossing: The temporary pedestrian crossing near the Reno Club will remain open while the underpass is closed to offer walking access to and from the underpass sidewalk. While crews work on the Central Avenue with 6th Street West intersection, a temporary pedestrian crossing has been added to provide walking access across Central Avenue, between Scentry Biologicals Inc. and CVS.
• Bus route detours: Due to the underpass closure, Billings MET Transit has rerouted the 9 Central and 19 The Loop bus routes. For help planning your trip, please call 406-657-8218 or click here for more information on bus routes.

October 8, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• Business access available throughout closure: During the State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection closure, access is still available to the businesses within the project area including Reno Club, Moose Lodge, Car Factory, Midwest Truck Parts, J H Motors, and 3 G's. Please use caution when traveling past barricades to access businesses.
• State Avenue intersection closure: The State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection is expected to be closed for approximately three weeks while resurfacing work is completed. Once resurfacing is completed on State Avenue and Underpass Avenue, the intersection will reopen to eastbound and westbound traffic. The 6th Street West underpass will remain closed while crews install traffic signal posts at Central Avenue and resurface the roadway between State Avenue and Central Avenue.
• Reduced traffic on Central Avenue: Due to the underpass closure, those traveling south from Central Avenue will need to use an alternate railroad crossing, such as Moore Lane (see map below). The Central Avenue with 6th Street West intersection is open to northbound, eastbound, and westbound traffic.
• Bus route detours: Due to the underpass closure, Billings MET Transit has rerouted the 9 Central and 19 The Loop bus routes. For help planning your trip, please call 406-657-8218 or click here for more information on bus routes.
• Pedestrian path: The temporary pedestrian crossing near the Reno Club will remain open during the intersection closure to offer walking access to and from the underpass sidewalk.

Work in progress:

• New concrete surfaces have been poured on each leg of the State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection and are now curing.
• Road base is being constructed on State Avenue between Underpass Avenue and Laurel Road to prepare for a new asphalt surface.
• Crews began milling State Avenue between Orchard Lane and Underpass Avenue this week in preparation for asphalt paving in the coming weeks.
• The underpass mural is being cleaned and touched up by original artist Elyssa Leininger in preparation for a new anti-graffiti coating. This mural was commissioned by the South Side Task Force in 2020. The preservation of the mural has been an important part of this project.
• Crews are routing electrical wiring under the roadway in preparation for an electrical service connection to the new stormwater pump station.

An aerial view of the State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection, captured by the project camera.

September 29, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• State Avenue intersection closure: The State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection is expected to be closed until late November while resurfacing work is completed. As a result of the closure, the 6th Street West underpass is closed. Underpass Avenue and a portion of State Avenue are closed as well (see map below).
• Reduced traffic on Central Avenue: Due to the underpass closure, those traveling south from Central Avenue will need to use an alternate railroad crossing, such as Moore Lane (see map below). The Central Avenue and 6th Street West intersection is open to northbound, eastbound, and westbound traffic.
• Weekend work: Riverside Contracting crews will be working this Saturday, September 30. Please use caution, follow traffic control, and avoid distractions when traveling near the project area.
• Bus route detours: Due to the underpass closure, Billings MET Transit has rerouted the 9 Central and 19 The Loop bus routes. For help planning your trip, please call 406-657-8218 or click here for more information on bus routes.
• Pedestrian path: The temporary pedestrian crossing near the Reno Club will remain open during the intersection closure to offer walking access to and from the underpass sidewalk. Bicyclists must use an alternate route and are not permitted to travel through the closed intersection.

Work in progress:

• Concrete paving at the State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection is about 80% complete. Once this work is complete, resurfacing work will begin on 6th Street West between the underpass and Central Avenue.
• The underpass mural is being cleaned and touched up by original artist Elyssa Leininger in preparation for a new anti-graffiti coating. This mural was commissioned by the South Side Task Force in 2020, and the preservation of the mural has been an important part of this project.
• Road base is being constructed on State Avenue between Underpass Avenue and Laurel Road to prepare for a new asphalt surface.
• Crews are routing electrical wiring under the roadway in preparation for an electrical service connection to the new stormwater pump station.
• A four-foot-high wall is being constructed around the vault component of the new stormwater pump station. The vault is a protective enclosure that houses pipes, valves, and other equipment necessary to control stormwater through the pump station.

A four-foot-high wall is being constructed around the vault component of the new stormwater pump station.

Workers prepare to pave the remaining sections of the State Avenue with Underpass Avenue intersection.

September 11, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• State Avenue intersection closure: The State Avenue and Underpass Avenue intersection is expected to be closed for approximately 50 working days while resurfacing work is completed. As a result of the closure, the 6th Street West underpass is also closed. Underpass Avenue and a portion of State Avenue are closed as well (see remaining bullets for details).
• Reduced traffic on Central Avenue: Due to the underpass closure, those traveling south from Central Avenue will need to use an alternate railroad crossing such as Moore Lane (see map above). The Central Avenue and 6th Street West intersection is open to northbound, eastbound, and westbound traffic.
• Bus route detours: Due to the underpass closure, Billings MET Transit has rerouted the 9 Central and 19 The Loop bus routes. For help planning your trip, please call 406-657-8218 or click here for more information on bus routes.
• State Avenue closure: State Avenue between Underpass Avenue and Laurel Road is closed to allow crews to begin upgrading the roadway. Starting next week, State Avenue between Underpass Avenue and Orchard Lane will also be closed.
• Pedestrian path: The temporary pedestrian crossing near the Reno Club will remain open during the intersection closure to offer walking access to and from the underpass sidewalk. Bicyclists must use the roadway and follow traffic control.

Work in progress:

• State Avenue intersection closure: The State Avenue and Underpass Avenue intersection is expected to be closed for approximately 50 working days while resurfacing work is completed. As a result of the closure, the 6th Street West underpass is also closed. Underpass Avenue and a portion of State Avenue are closed as well (see remaining bullets for details).
• Reduced traffic on Central Avenue: Due to the underpass closure, those traveling south from Central Avenue will need to use an alternate railroad crossing such as Moore Lane (see map above). The Central Avenue and 6th Street West intersection is open to northbound, eastbound, and westbound traffic.
• Bus route detours: Due to the underpass closure, Billings MET Transit has rerouted the 9 Central and 19 The Loop bus routes. For help planning your trip, please call 406-657-8218 or click here for more information on bus routes.
• State Avenue closure: State Avenue between Underpass Avenue and Laurel Road is closed to allow crews to begin upgrading the roadway. Starting next week, State Avenue between Underpass Avenue and Orchard Lane will also be closed.
• Pedestrian path: The temporary pedestrian crossing near the Reno Club will remain open during the intersection closure to offer walking access to and from the underpass sidewalk. Bicyclists must use the roadway and follow traffic control.

Crews prepare to pour a new concrete surface on 6th Street West, leading up to the State Avenue and 6th Street West intersection.

August 31, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• State Avenue intersection closure: Starting on September 5, the State Avenue and Underpass Avenue intersection will be closed for resurfacing. As a result of this closure, the 6th Street West underpass will be closed. Underpass Avenue and a portion of State Avenue will also be closed (see remaining bullets for details).
• Reduced traffic on Central Avenue: Due to the underpass closure, those traveling south from Central Avenue will need to use an alternate railroad crossing such as Moore Lane. The Central Avenue and 6th Street West intersection will remain open to northbound, eastbound, and westbound traffic.
• Underpass Avenue is open until next week: Traffic is currently reduced to single-lane travel in each direction. When the State Avenue intersection closes next week, Underpass Avenue will be closed between State Avenue and Calhoun Lane.
• State Avenue closed: State Avenue between Underpass Avenue and Laurel Road is closed to allow crews to begin upgrading the roadway. Starting next week, State Avenue between Underpass Avenue and Orchard Lane will also be closed.
• Pedestrian path: The temporary pedestrian crossing near the Reno Club will remain open during the intersection closure to offer walking access to and from the underpass sidewalk. Bicyclists must use the roadway and follow traffic control.

Work in progress:

• Crews are preparing to pour a new concrete surface on State Avenue starting at the State Avenue and Underpass Avenue intersection and extending west, toward the Reno Club.
• New stormwater facilities are being installed at the northeast corner of the State Avenue and Underpass Avenue intersection.
• New stormwater inlets are being installed throughout the project area as part of the upgraded stormwater facilities.
• Electrical work is expected to begin in the next couple of weeks.

A new concrete surface and curb and gutter have been installed on Underpass Avenue. Crews work to resurface State Avenue.

August 21, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• Underpass Avenue reopened: Underpass Avenue south of State Avenue has reopened to the traveling public. Traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction. Drivers should expect to travel on dirt and gravel as resurfacing work is in progress. Please use caution and follow traffic control.
• State Avenue closure: Once Underpass Avenue reopens, State Avenue between Underpass Avenue and Laurel Road (orange on the map below) will close to allow crews to begin upgrading the roadway. Please consider using alternate routes and follow traffic control.
• Temporary traffic lights and flaggers are in place to keep traffic moving safely through the active work zone. Wait times may be longer than usual based on construction activity and traffic volume. Pay attention to your surroundings and proceed with caution.
• Pedestrian path: A temporary pedestrian path is in place to offer walking access to the underpass sidewalk during construction. The pedestrian crossing for Underpass Avenue is near the Reno Club. Bicyclists must use the roadway.

Work in progress:

• Workers are installing a new well, pumps, and electrical components at the northeast corner of the State Avenue and Underpass Avenue intersection. This will be part of the upgraded stormwater facilities to address previous flooding issues in the underpass.
• Concrete work is in progress at the Underpass Avenue and State Avenue intersection. While the surrounding roadways in this project are being paved with asphalt, the State Avenue and Underpass Avenue intersection is being paved with concrete for durability.
• New stormwater inlets are being installed throughout the project area as part of the upgraded stormwater facilities.

New stormwater facilities are being built to address past flooding issues in this area.

August 4, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• Please use caution and be prepared for changing conditions. Drivers should expect to travel on dirt and gravel through the intersections as work progresses. Consider alternate routes when planning your trip.
• Temporary traffic lights are in place to keep traffic moving safely through the active work zone. Wait times may be longer than usual based on construction activity and traffic volume. When the signal is red, come to a complete stop and DO NOT proceed until the light has turned green.
• Underpass Avenue south of State Avenue intersection (orange on the map below) is closed to allow crews to upgrade the roadway, build a retaining wall, and replace the sidewalk. Please use Orchard Lane as an alternate route.
• Eastbound and westbound between State Avenue and Laurel Road (green on the map below): Traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction while construction crews build stormwater facilities under the roadway.
• Pedestrian path (dashed line on the map below): A temporary pedestrian path is in place to offer walking access to the underpass sidewalk during construction. The pedestrian crossing for Underpass Avenue is near the Reno Club. Bicyclists must use the roadway.

Work in progress:

• Construction crews are installing a new wet well in the pit at the northeast corner of the State Avenue and Underpass Avenue intersection. This will be part of the new stormwater pump station.
• Gravel road base is being laid down on Underpass Avenue and State Avenue to prepare for new concrete surfaces. The intersection south of the underpass is being paved with concrete for durability.
• New stormwater inlets are being installed throughout the project area as part of the upgraded stormwater facilities.

July 11, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• 6th Street West Underpass: The northbound lane of 6th Street West has been re-opened. Underpass traffic has resumed to single-lane travel in each direction. Drivers should expect to travel on dirt and gravel in this area of the project as work progresses.
• Temporary traffic lights are in place to keep traffic moving safely through the active work zone. Wait times may be longer than usual based on construction activity and traffic volume. When the signal is red, come to a complete stop and DO NOT proceed until the light has turned green.
• Underpass Avenue south of State Avenue intersection is closed to allow crews to upgrade the roadway, build a retaining wall, and replace the sidewalk. Please use Orchard Lane as an alternate route.
• Eastbound and westbound between State Avenue and Laurel Road (green on the map): Traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction while construction crews build stormwater facilities under the roadway.
• Pedestrian path (dashed line on the map): A temporary pedestrian path has been built to offer walking access to the underpass sidewalk during construction. The pedestrian crossing for Underpass Avenue is near the Reno Club. Bicyclists must use the roadway.
• Construction camera: Click here to view real-time images of current traffic conditions.

Work in progress:

• Next week, crews will begin pouring concrete for the curb and gutter in preparation for a new sidewalk on Underpass Avenue.
• Retaining walls have been constructed to support the new sidewalks.
• Road base is being placed on Underpass Avenue for the new roadway and sidewalk.
• The new stormwater pumphouse is being constructed on the northeast corner of the 6th Street West and Underpass Avenue intersection. This will replace the old pumphouse located on the opposite corner of the intersection. A utility pole has been removed to make space for the pumphouse.
• Stormwater facilities are being constructed throughout the project area.

July 7, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• 6th Street West Underpass: Beginning on July 8, the northbound lane of the 6th Street West underpass (orange on the map) will be temporarily closed to allow construction crews to complete pipework under the roadway. The southbound lane is still open. Please use caution and consider using alternate routes.
• Temporary traffic lights are in place to keep traffic moving safely through the active work zone. Wait times may be longer than usual based on construction activity and traffic volume. When the signal is red, come to a complete stop and DO NOT proceed until the light has turned green.
• Underpass Avenue south of State Avenue intersection (yellow on the map) is closed to allow crews to upgrade the roadway, build a retaining wall, and replace the sidewalk. Please use Orchard Lane as an alternate route.
• Eastbound and westbound between State Avenue and Laurel Road (green on the map): Traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction while construction crews build stormwater facilities under the roadway.
• Pedestrian path (dashed line on the map): A temporary pedestrian path has been built to offer walking access to the underpass during construction. The pedestrian crossing for Underpass Avenue is near the Reno Club. Bicyclists must use the roadway rather than the pedestrian crossing.
• Construction camera: Click here to view real-time images of current traffic conditions.

Work in progress:

• Retaining walls have been constructed.
• Road base is being placed on Underpass Avenue for the new roadway and sidewalk.
• The new stormwater pumphouse is being constructed on the northeast corner of the 6th Street West and Underpass Avenue intersection. This will replace the old pumphouse located on the opposite corner of the intersection.
• Stormwater facilities are being constructed throughout the project area.
• Concrete islands have been removed from both intersections.

Project Map

June 19, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• Eastbound and westbound between State Avenue and Laurel Road (green on the map): Traffic is reduced to single lane traveling in each direction while construction crews build stormwater facilities under the roadway.
• 6th Street underpass (green on the map): While work occurs in the underpass, traffic is reduced to single lane traveling in each direction.
• Underpass Avenue south of State Avenue intersection (orange on the map): Beginning on Wednesday, 6/21, Underpass Avenue will be closed between the Underpass Avenue and State Avenue intersection and the Underpass Avenue and Calhoun Lane intersection.
• Temporary traffic lights will be used for the next couple of months while the new intersection is built. Wait times may be longer than usual. Please plan accordingly.
• Pedestrian path (dashed line on the map): A temporary pedestrian path has been built to offer walking access to the underpass during construction. The pedestrian crossing for Underpass Avenue is near the Reno Club. Bicyclists must use the roadway rather than the pedestrian path.
• Construction camera: The new camera offers a live view of current traffic conditions.

Construction Updates:

• The new stormwater pumphouse is being constructed on the northeast corner of the 6th Street West and State Avenue intersection southern intersection. This will replace the old pumphouse located on the northwest side of the intersection.
• Stormwater facilities are being constructed throughout the project area.
• Retaining walls are being constructed.
• Concrete islands have been removed from both intersections.
• A construction camera has been installed above Underpass Avenue. Click here to access the live feed.

Project Map

June 8, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• Eastbound and westbound lanes between State Avenue and Laurel Road: Traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction while construction crews build stormwater facilities under the roadway.
• 6th Street underpass between the stop lights at Central Avenue and State Avenue: Traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction.
• Underpass Avenue (south of State Avenue intersection): Traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction.
• Temporary traffic lights will be used for the next couple of months while the new intersection is built. Wait times may be longer than usual. Please plan accordingly.
• Pedestrian path: A temporary pedestrian path has been built to offer walking access to the underpass during construction. The pedestrian crossing for Underpass Avenue is near the Reno Club.
• Overpass single-lane traffic: A separate construction project will begin on Monday, June 12, reducing traffic to one lane on the Montana Avenue overpass, above 6th Avenue West.

Project Updates:

• The new stormwater pumphouse is being constructed on the northeast corner of the 6th Street West and State Avenue intersection to replace the old pumphouse located on the opposite corner of the intersection.
• Stormwater facilities are being constructed throughout the project.
• A new construction camera has been installed near Underpass Avenue. Click here for a live view of current traffic conditions.
• Retaining walls are being constructed.
• Concrete islands have been removed from both intersections.

This screenshot was captured from the construction camera’s live feed on June 2, 2023, during a heavy rainstorm. The photo demonstrates how the new stormwater detention pond functions. Despite record-breaking precipitation, the 6th Street West underpass has not flooded.

May 30, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• A one-day closure of State Avenue between the southern intersection and Orchard is planned for Wednesday to allow for the installation of stormwater facilities.
• East-bound and west-bound between State Avenue and Laurel Road: This segment is re-opened to the traveling public. Traffic is reduced to single-lane traffic in each direction while the team builds stormwater facilities under the roadway.
• 6th Street underpass: While work occurs in the underpass, traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction.
• Underpass Avenue south of State Avenue intersection: This segment is re-opened to the traveling public. Traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction while additional work occurs.
• Traffic lights: Traffic lights at the southern intersection have signals have been removed. Temporary signals are in use for the next couple of months while the new intersection is built.
• Pedestrian path (dashed line on the map): A temporary pedestrian path has been built to offer walking access to the underpass during construction. A pedestrian crossing of Underpass Avenue is near the Reno Club.

Project Updates:

• Stormwater facilities are being constructed throughout the project.
• Retaining walls are being constructed.
• Concrete islands have been removed from both intersections.
• Potholes caused by the rain last weekend are being repaired.

May 18, 2023

Travel Advisories:

MEMORIAL WEEKEND: Crews will pause construction activities for Memorial Day weekend by 3 p.m. on Friday, May 26 and will resume on Tuesday, May 30. Please drive safely through the work zone.

• East-bound and west-bound between State Avenue and Laurel Road: This segment is closed while the team builds stormwater facilities under the roadway. This closure is anticipated to last approximately one week.
• 6th Street underpass between stop lights: While work occurs in the underpass, traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction.
• Underpass Avenue south of State Avenue intersection: This segment is re-opened to the traveling public. Traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction while additional work occurs.
• Traffic lights: The traffic lights at the southern intersection have been removed. Temporary signals are in use for the next couple of months while the new intersection is built.
• Pedestrian path: A temporary pedestrian path has been built to offer walking access to the underpass during construction. A pedestrian crossing of Underpass Avenue is near the Reno Club.

Project Updates:

• The City of Billings is testing the new water mains to confirm functionality and quality.
• Stormwater facilities are being constructed.
• Retaining walls are being constructed.
• Concrete islands have been removed from both intersections.
• A culvert to carry irrigation water was installed last week on the north side of the underpass. This must be completed prior to irrigation water being turned on.

May 12, 2023

Travel Advisories:

Work on the water main is nearing completion on Underpass Avenue. The construction activities require a temporary closure of Underpass Avenue south of the State Avenue intersection.

• East-bound and west-bound between State Avenue and Laurel Road: Beginning Wednesday, this segment will be closed while the team builds stormwater facilities under the roadway. This closure is anticipated to last approximately one week.
• 6th Street underpass between stop lights: While work occurs in the underpass, traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction.
• Underpass Avenue south of State Avenue intersection: Traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction.
• Traffic lights: The traffic lights at the southern intersection have been removed; temporary signals are in use for the next couple of months while the new intersection is built.
• Pedestrian path: A temporary pedestrian path has been built to offer walking access to the underpass during construction. A pedestrian crossing of Underpass Avenue is near the Reno Club.

Project Updates:

• The City of Billings is testing the new water mains to confirm functionality and quality.
• Stormwater facilities are being constructed.
• Retaining walls are being constructed.
• Concrete islands are being removed in the southern intersection.

May 5, 2023

Travel Advisories:

Construction is progressing on the water main replacement under Underpass Avenue. The construction activities require a temporary closure of Underpass Avenue south of the State Avenue intersection.

• 6th Street underpass between stop lights: While work occurs in the underpass, traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction.
• Underpass Avenue south of State Avenue intersection: The Underpass Avenue/Calhoun Lane intersection is closed while the team replaces the water main under the street. This closure is expected to take a few weeks. Please use Orchard Lane as an alternate route.
• Laurel Road west of Underpass Avenue and State Avenue east of Underpass Avenue: While the team replaces the water main under the street, traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction.
• Traffic Lights: The traffic signals at the southern intersection have been removed; temporary signals will be used for the next couple of months while the new intersection is built.

Project Updates:

• Water mains and storm drains are being replaced.
• The shared-use path is being constructed.
• Retaining walls are being constructed.
• Concrete islands are being removed in the southern intersection.

April 27, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• 6th Street underpass between stop lights: While work occurs in the underpass, traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction.
• Underpass Avenue south of State Avenue intersection: Underpass Avenue/Calhoun Lane intersection is closed while the team replaces the water main under the street. This closure is expected to take a few weeks. Please use Orchard Lane as an alternate route.
• Laurel Road west of Underpass Avenue and State Avenue east of Underpass Avenue: While the team replaces the water main under the street, traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction.
• Traffic lights: The traffic signals at the southern intersection have been removed; temporary signals will be used for the next couple of months while the new intersection is built.

Project Updates:

• Water mains are being replaced.
• The shared-use path is being constructed.
• Retaining wall construction will begin next week.
• Signals are being removed.

April 24, 2023

Travel Advisories:

• 6th Street underpass between stop lights: While work occurs in the underpass, traffic is reduced to single-lane travel in each direction.
• Underpass Avenue south of State Avenue intersection: The Underpass Avenue/Calhoun Lane intersection is closed while the team replaces the water main under the street. This closure is expected to take a few weeks. Please use Orchard Lane as an alternate route.

April 14, 2023

Construction has begun on the Underpass Avenue/State Avenue and the 6th Street West/Central Avenue intersections.

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) construction project at the intersections of Underpass Avenue/State Avenue and 6th Street West/Central Avenue had begun. Riverside Contracting, Inc. will begin the work to reconstruct the intersections to enhance traffic operations and safety in the south-central Billings area. The project incorporates new traffic signals, storm drain, lighting, improved pedestrian facilities, and upgraded signage to improve these intersections, promote accessibility, and enhance safety features.

Please note these upcoming traffic closures:

• 6th Street underpass between stop lights: Reduced to single-lane travel in each direction beginning Monday, 4/17. (indicated by green on the map)
• Underpass Avenue south of State Avenue intersection: Closed after 9 a.m. on Monday, 4/17. The Underpass Ave/Calhoun Lane intersection will be closed. Please use Orchard Lane as an alternate route. (indicated by orange on the map)