Project Overview

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), in partnership with Jacobs Engineering, Yellowstone Safe Passage (YSP), and the Center for Large Landscape Conservation have begun a feasibility study to evaluate potential wildlife crossing improvements along US Highway 89 (US 89) between mile markers 16.5 and 22 near Dome Mountain in Park County.

This section of US 89 serves as an important corridor for both travelers and wildlife. Animals, including elk, deer and other species, regularly move through the region, and high rates of animal vehicle collisions (WVCs) occur. The purpose of the study is to explore whether wildlife mitigation improvements can reduce crashes while maintaining safe movement across the landscape.

What Is Being Studied

During the feasibility study, the project team will evaluate potential locations for two wildlife overpasses near mile markers 17.6–18.5 and 19.3–19.5. In addition, the study will review opportunities to improve wildlife passage beneath the existing Point of Rocks Bridge over the Yellowstone River at approximately mile marker 20.

The study will also examine the possibility of installing 8-foot-tall wildlife fencing between mile markers 16.5 and 22. This fencing would guide animals toward safe crossing locations while helping keep wildlife off the roadway. Additional safety features being evaluated include wildlife “jump-outs,” which allow animals that enter the corridor to escape safely, as well as treatments at property access points such as cattle guards or electric mats.

These overpasses, with associated wildlife fencing elements, will allow wildlife to safely cross the highway while reducing WVC risk.

What a Feasibility Study Means

This effort is a feasibility study only. The study will help determine whether proposed improvements are practical, environmentally appropriate, and financially achievable. No construction decisions are being made at this time, and construction funding has not been allocated.

If the study determines the project is feasible, additional design work, environmental review and funding would be required before any improvements could move forward.

UPN 1059600