Chinook, MT: Work on US 2 between Havre and Chinook is substantially complete as of this week. Crews have finished paving the highway mainline, and have placed interim pavement markings, delineation, and guardrail for the project. Some permanent signs were installed before winter shutdown.

“The Lohman East and West project on US 2 is reconstruction project designed to improve a critical stretch of hi-line roadway infrastructure. We have completely reconstructed over ten miles of US 2 and rebuilt four bridges,” Great Falls District Administrator Jim Wingerter said.

He said the project now provides passing lanes, turning lanes, new bridges, wider shoulders, and flatter roadway side slopes. “It will provide a modern, safe, and efficient highway that meets traffic needs,” Wingerter said.

Construction will resume on US 2 this spring. A small amount of miscellaneous topsoil replacement, seeding, rumble strip, final pavement marking, and permanent sign work remains. MDT and Schellinger will also be paving the remaining unpaved approaches along the stretch this spring.

Traffic speeds during winter shut down will be back up to 70 mph, although MDT would like to ask motorists to exercise prudence and caution through this stretch, because it has undergone significant changes in the last year.

Below are some of the benefits of the Lohman E/W project:

· Improving safety to reduce the probability and severity of crashes.

· Increasing the operational capacity of the roadway.

· Improving service to the local communities, agriculture, industry, commerce, and tourism.

· Improving wildlife access and reducing animal-vehicle crashes.

As always, MDT would like to thank the traveling public for their patience and understanding throughout construction this year.