Project Overview

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and its partners, the City of Kalispell and contractor Schellinger Construction, are working to improve the intersection of 2nd Street East/Conrad Drive with Woodland Avenue by installing a single-lane roundabout. The purpose of this project is to enhance intersection safety features and reduce the number and severity of crashes, which a roundabout will accomplish.

Construction will begin summer 2026 and is anticipated to be fully completed fall 2027. This schedule is subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen factors.

During construction, the intersection will be closed to traffic.

The closure is expected to start in early August.

Closing the area ensures faster, safer, and more efficient work within the project area. Detour and alternate route signage will be in place to guide drivers around the closure.

Why a Roundabout?

MDT and the City of Kalispell evaluated multiple options to improve the intersection of 2nd Street East, Conrad Drive, and Woodland Avenue and decided to construct a single-lane roundabout. A roundabout:

• Fits within the public right-of-way.
• Enhances intersection safety.
  • Improves visibility of oncoming vehicles from all approaches.
  • Reduces the number of vehicle conflict points.
  • Slows traffic speeds through the intersection.
• Improves pedestrian and bicycle crossings.
  • Shorter crossing distances and fewer conflict points increase safety and comfort.
• Improves traffic flow.
  • Keeps vehicles moving with fewer stops and reduced delays.
• Allows larger vehicles, including school buses and trucks with trailers, to safely maneuver through the intersection using a truck apron.
• Provides long-term value as a cost-effective solution designed to efficiently handle projected traffic volumes for at least the next 20 years without significant additional investment.

Additionally, this intersection is part of an emergency route and is maintained by the City of Kalispell.