Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What is the proposed start date of this project and how long is it scheduled to last?
Answer: Right-of-way acquisition is currently underway for the first segment (Lupfer to Karrow). Utility relocation work is expected to begin in 2012 with road construction beginning in 2013. Construction of the first segment is anticipated to take 1-2 years. Right-of-way acquisition for the second segment (Karrow to Mountainside) is expected to begin in 2012, with right-of-way acquisition for the third segment (Mountainside to MP 133) following after that. Construction will occur as funding is available.
Question: What is the purpose of permanent right-of-way? What will this property be used for?
Answer: The permanent right-of-way purchased for this project will provide room for the wider road, more sidewalks, and the relocation of some utilities.
Question: How does the right-of-way acquisition process work?
Answer: The Montana Department of Transportation is required to pay fair market value for the land acquired for the project. Fair market value is determined by appraisals, and includes any damages to the remainder of the property. Prior to the start of the right-of-way acquisition phase, affected property owners will be invited to a meeting to explain the process. Click here to view additional information about the Montana Department of Transportation’s right-of-way acquisition process.
Question: What plan is in place for the replacement of trees, fences, and other property amenities that may need to be removed to accommodate the right-of-way?
Answer: Trees, fences, and other property amenities are considered in the right-of-way negotiations.
Question: Are utilities such as water and sewer lines going to be replaced?
Answer: The City water and sewer utilities will be replaced with this project. This will be a good opportunity to connect to sewer or add additional services. Please include this request during your right-of-way negotiations.
Question: How do we obtain agenda, minutes, and other materials from the November 17th, 2009 Open House or any other meetings being held with regard to this project?
Answer: Please see Project Info for this information.
Question: How do we obtain a copy of the improvement plans for this project?
Answer: Refer to Project Info or contact Project Engineer, Jeremy Keene, PE at 406-728-4611.
Question: What are the required actions that must be taken before the project is approved?
Answer: This project was originally included in the 1994 US93 Somers to Whitefish West Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Record of Decision. A Re-Evaluation of the EIS was approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in 2008. Montana Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration must approve final design plans and authorize right-of-way acquisition to begin.
Question: What are temporary construction permits used for and what will happen to my property?
Answer: The temporary construction permit will allow the contractor to work on or near your property. The area used will be restored and returned to the property owner when the project is complete.