Updates are planned for crosswalks near the Flathead County Courthouse.
Workers will install flashing lights that pedestrians activate at the push of button.
Six crossings will receive the upgrades.
Work is expected to begin in early June.
Crosswalks will also be updated to meet federal disabilities standards.
The Montana Department of Transportation released the following information:
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), in partnership with WGM Group and Knife River, will update several pedestrian crossings near the Flathead County Courthouse to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and improve pedestrian visibility.
“We are committed to the safety of all roadway users,” John Schmidt, MDT Missoula District Construction Engineer, said. “These upgrades will increase the visibility of pedestrians and cyclists near the courthouse couplet by alerting drivers when someone is waiting to cross the street.”
In addition to ADA upgrades at existing crossings, Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB) will be installed at six crossings. An RRFB alerts drivers of the presence of pedestrians and bicyclists. When a button is pushed, two lights flash quickly and brightly to get the driver’s attention.
MDT offers these tips for pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers at an RRFB crossing.
Pedestrians:
- Press the button to start the flashing lights.
- Look both ways and make eye contact with drivers to ensure traffic stops before entering the crosswalk. Waving at drivers is a great way to be certain they have seen you.
- Always scan the road while crossing to be sure all cars have stopped.
Bicyclists:
- Always stop at the crosswalk before riding your bike across the street.
- Press the button to start the flashing lights.
- Make eye contact with drivers to be sure they see you.
- If riding your bike across the street, wait until all cars have stopped before entering the intersection and follow all traffic rules.
- If walking your bike across the street, follow the rules for pedestrians.
Drivers:
- Slow down when approaching a crosswalk.
- Be alert and watch for pedestrians and bikes near the roadway.
- Always stop when RRFB lights are flashing.
- Wait until the roadways are completely clear before proceeding.
These updates will be completed in two phases. Construction on the first phase is anticipated to begin in early June and will take approximately two weeks to complete. A timeline for the second phase is undetermined but will take place later this year when materials become available.
Updates will be provided during construction. To subscribe for email updates, please send a request to Kristine at Kristine@bigskypublicrelations.com. For more information about these and other area ADA updates, please visit https://www.mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/kalispellada/.
Alternative accessible formats of this document will be provided on request. Persons who need an alternative format should contact the Office of Civil Rights, Department of Transportation, 2701 Prospect Avenue, PO Box 201001, Helena, MT 59620. Telephone 406-444-5416 or Montana Relay Service at 711.