$370 Million In Potential Safety Improvements Proposed For US 191

We have some pretty sketchy drives here in Montana, and just outside of Bozeman sits one of the most talked about stretches of road. U.S. 191 and Highway 64, the main route between Bozeman and Big Sky. It is a drive many Montanans know all too well. It is undeniably beautiful, winding through the Gallatin Canyon along the river, but those tight curves, narrow lanes, and limited pullouts can quickly raise your stress level.  Now, there may be some changes on the horizon aimed at making it safer.

The Montana Department of Transportation is moving forward with what is called the US 191 and MT 64 Optimization Plan. This plan includes a series of potential projects designed to improve safety, traffic flow, and overall infrastructure along the pass. The big things mentioned are possible upgrades near Lava Lake, replacing the Spanish Creek bridge, and adding passing lanes or turnouts.

A study completed in 2020 found more than 1,000 crashes along this corridor over a ten-year period. Unfortunately, that does include several fatal incidents.

Aggressive passing, wildlife, and congestion continue to be major concerns. A roundabout at the Highway 64 intersection is being evaluated, though no final decision has been made.

Obviously, this would be a major, long-term project for our area. Right now, it has an estimated cost of around $370 million and years of construction if it moves forward. The Montana Department of Transportation is currently accepting public comments on the proposal HERE.