MDT announces scope changes for US 93 projects
Funding challenges impact Post Creek Hill, Ninepipe Eagle Pass Trail projects
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News from Becca MacLean on behalf of the Montana Department of Transportation
LAKE COUNTY — The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) has scaled down two projects on U.S. Highway 93 (US 93) in Lake County due to funding constraints. US 93 Post Creek Hill project limits have been reduced, and the Ninepipe Eagle Pass Trail project area will be limited to the Eagle Pass Trail and US 93 Wildlife Overpass portions of the planned work.
“This is an example of how Montana’s transportation needs exceed available funding,” said MDT Missoula District Administrator Bob Vosen. “We will continue to work with our partners at CSKT and FHWA to find solutions and funding to complete these projects.”
A 2023 Neighborhood Access and Equity (NAE) grant awarded to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) was rescinded in July. This federal funding in the amount of $74.9 million was slated to design and reconstruct US 93 in the Ninepipe area and would have covered more than 80% of the project cost. This project included three segments; the US 93 North Ninepipe project; the US 93 Wildlife Overpass; and the Eagle Pass Trail Safety project. Improvements near the intersection of US 93 and Eagle Pass Trail, which include a wildlife overpass, shared-use path, new turn-lane, and widened shoulders are still planned for construction in 2027.
The US 93 Post Creek Hill project is scheduled to begin construction next year. However, the construction cost of this complex project exceeds available funding, requiring that the length of improvements be reduced to align with available resources. Improvements planned for construction in 2026 include a northbound truck climbing lane at Post Creek Hill and a new bridge over Post Creek that facilitates wildlife movement.
Anyone with questions is encouraged to connect with the team or visit the project website at https://mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/us93npostcreekhill/. Email Becca at becca@bigskypublicrelations.com with questions or media inquiries. The public can also call the project hotline Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 406-207-4484.
