HomeMy WebLinkAboutMDT Newsline December 2010 r" s <
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Newsletter of the Montana Department of Transportation Rail, Transit & Planning Division p' '''`
MDT Making a Difference in Montana's
Economy
Message From the Director
4 DT ended 2010 of these goods and services are examples of economic activity
IVA with a sixth straight and good - paying jobs supported by our state's highway
year in record contractor construction program. The success of MDT's highway
x payments. These pay- construction program and associated economic benefit, at a
ments represent communi- time when Montana needed it the most, has been essential for
Ii ~ �; y � t , , _ •
" 4 ties across Montana seeing Montana's construction industry and the support businesses
x ` much needed highway ability to keep their employees on the payroll and doors open.
=p t n •
projects started and in During a recent meeting I attended with the Montana
• ' many cases, completed. Contractors' Association, members described MDT's construc-
' 41451
In addition to supporting tion program as the "Shining Star" for their industry in 2010
highway construction stating, "If it were not for MDT, a lot of our contractors would
jobs, these payments also have been devastated." If these contractors had been
add to and sustain higher devastated, the impact would have also passed on to construc-
paying jobs throughout the tion purchases of materials and supplies coming from small
state. These dollars go on Montana businesses within the state of Montana.
to purchase fuel, hotel To protect this vitally important program, we've been
MDT Director Jim Lynch rooms, contractor working hard at the Department of Transportation to deliver
supplies, asphalt, sand, more with what we've got and do everything we can, to
gravel, concrete, timber, steel, construction equipment, vehicles, contribute to the state's economy. We're developing projects
private engineering services, and meals in local restaurants. All quicker, cutting costs, streamlining processes, building projects
(continued on next page)
Surface Transportation Program Reauthorization
Alit ontana's share of the federal highway program distributed through formula is 0.9758 percent. It
A�1'JL is essential that Montana retain or increase its share under the next federal transportation
authorization bill.
Discretionary or designer programs dilute the federal highway trust fund and take money away from
rural states like Montana. These programs generally favor populated, congested areas and divert fund-
ing away from the core highway system. In recent reauthorization discussions at the national level, there has been
increased pressure to enact new designer programs which sound good on the surface, but ultimately direct funds away
from rural states. The highway trust fund, which are road user fees, should not be used to fund, or continue to fund,
these kinds of programs.
As an example of the impacts these programs could have on rural states, the recent Transportation Investment
Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER I and TIGER II) grants were distributed based on a number of these
designer program criteria. Under TIGER I and TIGER II, Montana received a total of $15.5 million of the available
national total of $2.1 billion. If Montana were to receive our program formula share of 0.9758 percent, we would have
received $20.5 million. If you expand this difference to apply to the $40.1 billion national program, Montana would
lose approximately $112 million per year. Typically, these programs are not in the best interests of rural states. MDT
will continue to work to protect and ensure Montana receives its share of the national program.
_ �� a.•: r.� -.£;y r . _ i. i:;,m P.tva... , .iiab -., 'is 'rasH - " _ .A s. w<ty,- w ?9#.L.t�i'.,f'
(MDT Making a Difference continued from previous page) studies coordinated with local communities, the Federal Highway
sooner than expected, and utilizing private sector businesses for Administration, and resource agencies. This early coordination
products and services to make the department more efficient. helps build consensus and define realistic and fundable needs in a
MDT's 2010 -2011 biennium budget was approximately $1.3 corridor, which ultimately saves time and cost in the environ-
billion. Of that amount, $1 billion is directed to the private mental and project development process. Other steps we've
sector. And, MDT's 2012- 2013 biennium budget proposed to implemented include decreasing internal review periods during
the legislature includes increases in contractor payments, and project development, shortening the project advertising and award
state funded construction projects. At the same time, the process, and shortening the consultant design negotiation and
number of MDT employees needed to deliver our highway contract execution process. Our efforts have decreased getting
program over the next two years will not increase, continuing projects under contract for design from 47 weeks to 11 weeks.
our commitment to do more with the resources we have. Private Additionally, MDT is practicing passive right -of -way acquisition
sector payments will again be higher than during our last when possible and using design/build contracts when it makes
biennium budget. MDT's proposed budget is about delivering sense.
much needed infrastructure investment without increasing Streamlining project development and delivery has helped
unnecessary overhead. The bottom line: Serving you all with make it possible for MDT to effectively utilize limited taxpayer
Pride, creating a strong economic climate, and making dollars to build infrastructure.
infrastructure investments that create and sustain higher paying And, our efforts aren't limited to project development phases.
jobs for Montana. Once a project is on the ground, contractor incentives for finish-
ing ahead of schedule and disincentives for taking more time than
Asset Management & Accomplishments contracted have proven to accelerate construction and minimize
In a rural state like ours, with a lot of roads, and very few inconvenience to the traveling public.
people, resources are scarce and strategic highway investment At MDT we are continually pursuing ways to reduce program
decisions have to be made. One of the keys to many of MDT's costs. Some examples of other cost saving measures include
achievements is our comprehensive asset management system down - scoping projects when possible – specifically choosing
called the Performance Programming Process (P3). MDT and when it is appropriate to rehab rather than reconstruct; converting
the Transportation Commission use this nationally recognized traffic signals to energy efficient LED lights; and instituting a
asset management system to guide funding distributions and Value Analysis (VA) process to identify ways to decrease costs
ensure optimal investment of taxpayer dollars. Asset manage- and be more efficient in a project's design, maintenance, and
ment is a systematic and ongoing process used to maximize the construction. The overall savings since this VA process was
life of the asset (the road facility) in the most cost - effective way initiated in February 2005 is approximately $69 million.
and ties the state's capital improvement program into specific,
quantified performance goals for pavement condition, roadway Projects and Contractor Payments
congestion, bridge condition, and safety. Diligent asset management and streamlining project delivery and
P3 provides a decision - making framework that optimizes the costs have enabled the department to tackle projects that many
preservation, upgrading, and timely replacement of highway around the state thought would never be built. Examples of such
assets through careful management and resource allocation. In projects are featured on pages 4 and 5.
other words, using P3 ensures the construction program makes Because MDT is getting more projects out the door, MDT's
the best use of funds to maintain highway system performance payments to contractors have reached record high levels, topping
across the state. By using this process, MDT is meeting $339 million in fiscal year 2010 compared to $228.5 million in
performance goals of desirable to superior ratings on the 2005. MDT's payments to contractors have sustained and
average ride index on the Interstate, National Highway and supported about 45,870 jobs since 2005, and on average, MDT
Primary systems. We have also achieved decreases in deficient has supported 7,645 jobs per year, and growing. Since 2005,
bridges and traffic fatalities. For the first time since 1997, employment supported by MDT's construction program has
Montana will have fewer than 200 fatalities on our state's roads. increased by 471 jobs per year (on average) based on a direct,
Since 2005, changes in Montanans' driving behavior and infra- indirect, and induced multiplier of 27.8 jobs per million, and
structure improvements have saved over 100 lives. That is 100 about $1.65 billion in MDT contractor payments.
mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, good friends, and neighbors
that are still with us today because of the commitment we all, Continued Investment in Roadways
you and I, have made in driving safer on our roads -Thank You. Of course, Montana's highway program relies heavily on federal
funding. We are currently operating under continuing resolutions
Streamlining of the expired federal highway bill, SAFETEA LU. This means
In terms of project delivery, it can take upwards of seven years uncertainty when it comes to what the state's future federal
of planning, research, and engineering for a project to move funding picture will look like.
from idea to construction- ready. Funding availability and budg- However, what Montana stands for in a new federal highway
eting is considered at every step in the process and keeping the bill is certain and preserving Montana's share of the national
public involved throughout development is essential. MDT has program is essential under the next federal transportation bill.
taken actions in recent years to streamline project development Continued investment at current or increased levels both on the
in order to save both time and money. federal and state levels is imperative to building upon and
One step we've taken is to improve project scoping by expanding our achievements into future years.
conducting pre- National Environmental Policy Act corridor Serving You with Pride — Director Jim Lynch
2
Highway Safety Efforts Making a Difference
® ver the last decade, Montana has continued to rank high in appears more people are wearing seatbelts. Based on preliminary
traffic related fatalities per population in comparison to the results, we're also seeing a 41 percent reduction in fatalities involv-
rest of the nation. However, in recent years MDT has imple- ing alcohol in 2010 compared to the same time frame in 2009.
mented several education programs and enforcement efforts to The following graph illustrates a steady decline in total and
make our roads safer. alcohol related fatalities between the years of 2007 and 2010. A
MDT has made it a mission to address highway safety and to similar trend is seen in fatalities involving alcohol over this same
reduce fatalities through better road engineering, public education, time period.
and by supporting law enforcement efforts to provide more cover- ,-- T = = ,
g Fatal omparison Dat
age on highways during peak travel times. MDT also supports,
emergency services with grants to outfit providers with the equip- 30
ment they need to save lives. f s 2a
MDT launched a program to increase public awareness on how
seat belt use saves lives in the Room to Live campaign, a media , — ,
effort which includes the traveling "Respect the Cage – Buckle i o
Up" display and a rollover simulator where the public can see and = a-
feel the impact of a crash when not using a seatbelt.
—
r
g
w!' # zoos � a8 zoos 2ao� 2oso
Year
!° sue a�
6I- ffYtieS ■< Alrnnnt hetat
y
r" - * The number of fatalities involving alcohol can change as more
-
1 ., , '- ,, information becomes available through the result of crash investigation.
, .at ' �x * *Years 2009 and 2010 are the fatality statistics for the time period of
T �. „; '= * January 1 to December 20. For years 2007 and 2008 the time period of
___ w January 1 to December 31.
x , r , While these numbers demonstrate improvements, improper seat -
f ", 4' ; 444i ., belt use remains a significant contributor to Montana's highway
fatalities. In Montana, historically 70 -80 percent of fatalities were
not properly wearing seatbelts. National estimates predict that half
Fair goers observe the Respect the Cage — Buckle Up display. could be saved if wearing a restraint. To date, a total of 111 people
who were not buckled up have died this year in crashes on Montana
These programs and multi- agency efforts through Montana's roadways. Using these estimates, 55 of the 111 could possibly
Comprehensive Highway Safety Plan are working, and traffic have survived the crash if they had been using their seatbelt. We
fatalities over the past four years have been on the decline. In are heading into a major holiday travel time and hope folks will
2007, total fatalities were at 277. In 2009, that number was 221. remember to buckle up - it could save your life.
This year, the state is experiencing the same downward movement. Source: National Highway Transportation Safety Agency, Montana Traffic
To date, 183 people have died on Montana roads compared to 214 Safety Problem Identification FFY 2011 Report (2009 Data).
in 2009 on the same date.
In addition, fatalities involving alcohol are decreasing and it
MDT's New Web Site plan2live.mt.gov
j ust in time for the holiday season, MDT is a night out. It also includes phone numbers for free
launching its latest effort to deter impaired 0 a i V ` ` ride home programs as well as ideas on friends and
drivers. MDT believes that part of planning a _ , , family who may be willing to be a designated driver.
night out should include a plan to get home A blood alcohol content calculator can be downloaded
safely. For those who choose to drink, that ��
,� as well, to give people a general idea of how many
means not driving. , , dri nks i t takes to become impaired.
MDT's new website, plan2live.mt.gov x .� The new site will be promoted through television
provides tools and ideas for alternate ways ads, on- premise signs where alcohol is sold, pump
home. The site allows users to send text _ toppers at gas stations, and posters distributed by local
reminders to plan a way home when enjoying " ` " DUI task forces.
Are You Okay to Drive?
3
MDT Delivers — Statewide Project Highlights
Many projects in Montana have been in the making for 10 to 20 years or more. These projects have been completed or are currently under
construction. Many have remarked, "these will never be completed" Just goes to show —never say never!
Secondary 323 Ekalaka to
c . - Cedar Street and
'' '' r ' " ; ;; Custer Inter 4.1 Alzada ¢' S,:',„'1,-;,,,,-,, ` a ' „4, ' �^3 a � '3TM ,, ,
. 1 : Paving of the Ekalaka to = * c hange — Helena
Alzada corridor has been Helena S and &
-- a desire of Carter County . r Gra began widen -
-;e:- '
'� Progress ° in Helena's Cedar
for decades. es - g vel
j toward accomplishing this � Street this past May
' and finished nearly
Road Segment Secondary 323 when the county applied for - 20 days ahead of
. k' ' schedule in Jul
and received Congressional federal funding for this corridor. Y
Over nine years and seven projects later, 46.9 miles of pavement have ."-' ” 2010.
been reconstructed on Secondary 323 for a total construction cost of Helena Street There are now five
$37.6 million. This road is a vital link in remote eastern Montana and lanes from I -15 to
provides the only paved north -south route through Carter County where North Montana Avenue, improved storm drains, sidewalks,
only a gravel road existed previously. Many people in Montana thought and more travel lanes on the 1 -15 overpass bridge. This
they would never see this road paved. construction project cost $2.3 million and paves the way as
The most recent project, Ekalaka South (Phase 3), was awarded June the initial phase towards construction of the Custer
2009 to Foothills Contracting, Inc., for $11 million to reconstruct 16 Interchange.
miles of pavement. This project completes paving of the Ekalaka- Alzada Phase 2, realignment of the Frontage Road to connect with
corridor. the signal at Washington Street, is underway by Helena Sand
& Gravel and includes a roundabout north of Custer Avenue
Shiloh Road - Billings -- " ''. - and Washington Street to facilitate future development. This
What began as a two -lane �
was awarded for $3.2 million.
country road ten years ago P - Phase 3 is the Custer Interchange and is scheduled for
has ended as Billings' u , . ; `- . letting late summer of 2011. The canal bridge will be
-.
newest north -south arterial, � .' Improved with this proJect_endmg at York Road:
identified as the western .. r`
gateway to the city of Kalispell US 93 �, .
Billings in the West 1 . .,
g a Alternate � �� z
Billings Plan. This 4.5 mile, ' R oute-South 1 . , -,
" � ,.,
four -lane corridor has eight ,,,,,,,;-.*
roundabouts allowing the
_ � � � � Forma discus- � � � � �- � _ �� ;,
sions began 18,
possibility of driving this : , �' .'- � years ago to build � �
urban arterial without ever 11. alternate
a US 93 alteate
stopping. The arterial also t1 '=- The southerns Kalispell.
has irrigated landscaping
and a separate bike/ ° became a reality
pedestrian trail. - with three con - •
Ten years ago when the �- tracts let in 2009 Kalispell US 93 Alternate Route - South
1 -90 Shiloh Interchange i " and 2010 for a
opened, the city of Billings, ' r two -lane facility connecting US 93 south of Kalispell to
Yellowstone County, Shiloh '' K • US 2. The projects include the restoration of an old mill
proponents, and MDT ' l ,, s for use as the roadway base, stream relocation and
officials —with the help of = revegetation, soil stability measures, three roundabouts,
U.S. Congressmen Senator , two bridges, a 3,000 -foot sound wall, pedestrian
Baucus and Senator Tester, 1 ' walkways and tunnel, and adjustment of city street
began working together to , connections.
make this project happen. pi ki The south half of the US 93 alternate route was
The construction cost is $21 ' opened to traffic on November 17. A fourth project
million thus far, excluding i . s was let in August 2010, which will complete the last
the cost of design, engineer - section of the rails -to- trails network from Somers to
ing, and right -of -way 1 1 4,. Kalispell to Kila. The construction cost for all four
acquisition. projects is approximately $25 million. MDT is continu-
r1 = ing right -of -way acquisition and pursuit of funding for
Shiloh Road — Before Shiloh Road — After the north connection.
4
', t7X- Butte Area Bridges
1 Two bridges in the Butte area are replacing 1964 structures that have • ;., x 4 , , :; I W been deemed functionally obsolete. The existing structures are only 28
t 4 feet wide and seismically vulnerable.
1 4 � g One set of railroad tracks beneath the structures has been abandoned
t _ allowing the grade to be lowered approximately 15 feet. This resulted
in a shorter two -span structure, as opposed to the existing eight span-
.— structures. The new structures are 36 feet wide. Grade changes will
F - — r -% - ° improve motorist sight distance, and grade changes and surfacing
- 0 4 � � upgrades will enhance skid resistance. • i „ The new eastbound bridge is now open to traffic with work
. _:-t, ' scheduled to begin April 2011on the westbound bridge. All work
Jew 1 -15 eastbound structure (foreground) offers a perspective of the will be complete in August 2012. Sletten Construction received the
ignificant elevation difference between the new and existing structures. bid for approximately $6 million.
€E Richland County Transit Facility Shelby Rail Spur
t h With help from the The Richland County Transportation Montana Essential
(RCT) facility project in Sidney got Rail Freight Loan
x underway in late October. The Program, the city !
0. - , - . " , project calls for the construction of of Shelby has
'-: ', 4 two bus shelters at two separate improved a rail y
l The s w ill house
' 7 1,° - spur in the Shelby ` _.
,. �� three vehicles at one location and Industrial Park.
" ' 4 t "� .� two vehicles at the other locatio Shelby Rail Spur
�� t The line was out
k The project allows RCT to better of service because of several derailments. As a result,
, '. '' � ' w?� , ma its vehicles and protect rail cars were inefficiently towed to and from the
"° , ` -. r } ', them f rom t h e harsh winter and Y
� mainline by tractors.
zr r summer conditions. This allows for
The track's rehabilitation enables train engines to
i ; 1: a more comfortable passenger serve the business park. A major client on this spur is a
(. - _ ' _ experience and lower operation costs. liquid propane gas (LPG) company, which has a trans-
. .-- .. " `.g; ; The grant amount is for $184,000 loading and storage facility in the park. This facility
- and'was awarded to B &B Builders in employs about 25 full -time employees and distributes
. 's '; Sidney. The project is expected to be
LPG throughout the northwest.
The improved rail spur
complete this winter /spring. has greatly increased the company's efficiency and
enhanced business activities.
?ichland County Transit Facility The cost of this project was about $280,000. The rail
spur is improving economic activity in the business park
and the city of Shelby.
Two Medicine River Bridge on US 2 near East Glacier
Construction of a new bridge over the Two Medicine River began this fall. This bridge is 1,525 feet long and located on the Blackfeet
Indian Reservation. It will be the first segmental concrete box girder structure built in Montana and will provide a 40- foot -wide roadway.
This replaces the existing bridge that is a 28- foot -wide steel -deck truss structure built in 1941.
Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction Company was awarded the contract for approximately $24 million with a scheduled completion
date in the fall of 2012. This structure provides a vital link for commerce, tourism, and commuter traffic on Montana's US 2 corridor.
4
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Two Medicine Bridge Under Construction Two Medicine Bridge Rendering
5
Safe Traveling and Survival Tips
A s winter weather settles over • Do not use cruise control on wet, icy,
Montana, motorists are encouraged w "'
__ a � $ or snow-covered roads.
to check the MDT Road Report before , ,„ ,0 - 1 ,, r •
3 • Drive an appropriate speed for
they travel. Dial 511 or go online to _
L. 1 conditions. Driving too fast for
www.mdt511.com to learn about road -
conditions for a region or a specific route. i. k conditions is often a primary
MDT's 511 system covers most of the t ir
contributing factor in crashes.
state maintained highways, relaying. ,� • Be aware of potentially icy areas such
timely information on travel advisories, as shady spots and bridges.
driving conditions, weather forecasts, • When approaching a snowplow from
mad construction, road closures, chain quickly from the time you access the road the rear, reduce speed immediately.
requirements, and major delays. information to the time you make the trip. Snowplows must operate at slower
The 511 Web site includes an interac- Follow these important winter driving tips speeds to properly plow and sand.
tive condition map that includes a layer and have a safe trip: Be patient and don't crowd the
for camera images with winter travel plow. The plow operators know
information updated every 30 minutes or • Conduct a pre -trip vehicle inspection to
as major changes occur. Travelers can ensure the vehicle is operating properly. the road well and will pull over as
j soon as there is a spot for vehicles
Fl
also sign up to receive RSS feeds or
Fluid levels, wipers, belts, hoses, head -
g P to safely pass. When approaching
follow us on Twitter. MDT has more than lights, brake lights, and tires should all
be in good condition. web cameras and more than 65 Road an oncoming plow, don't crowd
the center line.
Weather Information Systems (RWIS) • Keep the vehicle's windows, mirrors, and For more information on winter driv-
deployed at various locations statewide to lights clear of snow and ice. ing and winter survival tips, go to http://
provide travelers a first -hand look at road • Drive with headlights on. www.mdt.mt.gov /publications /docs/
and weather information.
Be aware that conditions can change brochures /winter _ maint /
winter survival.pdf
A'"T � �° � �� � � � 4 d �' � a , , � � & Y'� s 'h` As , y, try � . �iag
1 , . '44' 4 ,F �s
h ^? $ C a 9 .k 3 . " `Y gip'
°e3 °t,„, ,,;',,',& 4 -?a , f ea,„ r g 2 's� , d s - y. ,{ .. ,, ":7'44k:1'''' '
Fall Transit Management The Billings workshop included additional information on the
new federal livability initiative. The Montana Transit Association
Workshops working with the Federal Transit Association (FTA) brought in a
p panel of speakers from FTA, Federal Highways Administration,
Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Department of Agricul-
r DT Transit Section held its annual Fall Transit Manage- ture, and the Environmental Protection Agency. Participants were
.la. ment Workshops in Helena and Billings in October. Sixty- provided with information on how to access planning funds and
two participants from transit agencies throughout Montana work cooperatively on livability initiatives. Examples were given
received training on marketing, reaching out to audiences through of specific successful projects.
new technologies, drug and alcohol testing, and disadvantaged For more information, contact Audrey Allums at 444 -4210 or
business enterprises. Two national experts in transit management aa1lums@mt.gov.
and marketing provided information on latest and best transit
practices.
Speakers presented information on drug and alcohol testing for Safe Routes to School
transit systems. Any transit employee in a safety sensitive
position must be drug tested. Information on new regulations for he Montana Safe Routes to School (SRTS) application deadline
testing employees was also provided. Participants received was December 31, 2010. The SRTS program can provide
training on customer service, marketing and promoting local financial support for schools and communities to promote safe
transit systems through current technology. Discussion on walking and biking to school for children in grades K -8.
Skyping, Web sites, texting, and social media provided Two examples of the type of activities supported by Montana's
participants with new ideas for local promotions. SRTS program are wallcing school buses, and infrastructure improve -
Several Montana providers were given the opportunity to share ments like sidewalks and bike racks. SRTS can reimburse up to 100
information on increasing marketing and ridership. Eagle Transit percent of the cost of a SRTS project.
in Kalispell has been successful with several marketing strategies To contact the SRTS coordinator, e -mail Taylor Lonsdale at
including advertising wraps on their buses to give them a new taylor .lonsdale @coe.montana.edu, or call 994-7031.
look and big -city feel. Representatives from Sidney spoke of For more information, go to http : / /www.mdt.mt.gov /pubinvolve/
their initiative with the schools to increase youth ridership to after saferoutes/ or contact MDT's bike pedestrian coordinator Mark
school activities and other social programs. Keeffe at 444 -9273 or mkeeffe(ajnt.gov.
6
Lima Port of Entry Then..... Modern Rest Area Now
by Jon Axline, MDT Historian
he new Lima rest area on Interstate 15 in southwestern highway commission to permanently shut the stations down after
Montana will include a relic from MDT's past - a vintage Port the 1957 season. Instead, the commission ordered that the -
of Entry station. The building will function much as it originally department's Planning Survey Division maintain traffic counts of
did, providing a place for motorists to stop, stretch their legs, an d tourist traffic.
get their first taste of Montana's scenic beauty. The Lima port of entry station was originally located 15 miles
The 1930s was a time of incredible change for the state's high- to the south on US Highway 91 at Monida. The rustic building
ways as the Montana Highway Department spent millions of federal was constructed in 1936 from standardized plans developed by
dollars to upgrade roads and bridges. During a span of just over ten the Montana Highway Department and intended to give the
years, the state's highways transformed s appearance of a log cabin. When built, the station
from among the nation's worst to one of the , had no electricity or running water (the closest
country's best road systems. A benefit of , 4 spring was 1'h miles away). To keep drinks cold,
that change was a huge surge in the number ,, the attendants buried a box in the ground, kept it
of tourists visiting the state. The highway '' "1 , filled with ice or cool water, and tightly sealed it
department responded by initiating a with a lid. The only telephone in the community
national ad campaign, distributing free was at the general store and was only available for
highway maps and promotional brochures, use during business hours. The highway department
building roadside picnic areas, and install- 4 „ , ; 4 „ -: :; ' ''7:1- 147 ”, had trouble keeping attendants at the remote station
ing roadside historical markers. An
f y and d e cided to move the building to Lima in 1948.
important part of the program was the : <,'4:72 , - �� Like all port of entry stations, the building
t ;
establishment of Ports of Entry stations at Wi _ .. �
�z ` ` contained two rooms: a foyer and living quarters for
n ine locations near the state's borders. The Lima port of entry station — then the two attendants. The living area included two
stations were on the front line of Montana's beds, a counter, cupboards, and two closets. The
tourist industry for three decades. 1957 highway department report provides the best description of
The stations originated in 1935 as shacks where Traffic Indus- the Lima port of entry station:
try Survey checkers operated in conjunction with State Department
of Agriculture inspectors. Their initial purpose was simply to count "Old building but the station has been well kept.
the number of out -of- state vehicles entering the state. It is not Needs toilets - attendants receive frequent requests for
known what caused the transformation of the survey into the restrooms here. Needs running water - it now has a
information posts they became the following year. The stations good fountain outside the building, which is popular
were open from mid -June until mid- September each summer in with visitors. Needs modern stove, one to provide some
conjunction with college summer vacation. Attendants at the sta- warmth on cold mornings as well as to be used for cook -
tions were all college students who "talk well, look well, know their ing. Needs shades on the west windows.
state and have manners." Two attendants were assigned to each
station, while the Missoula station had three attendants. Signs at The description of the station indicates it was in much
the state's borders asked out -of -state tourists to stop at the stations. better shape than most of the older stations in Montana by then.
If they did, the attendants provided each car with maps and other The Lima station was one of the busiest in the state. The
promotional materials, answered questions, and slapped a "Guest" pressure must have been too much for one attendant in 1956,
sticker on the windshield. because he quit about midway through the
From 1936 to 1951, Port of Entry - summer, leaving one man, D. C. Hodges, to man
station attendants wore uniforms similar inr ♦ the station by himself for two months. The high -
appearance to those worn by the way commissioners commended Hodges for his
highway patrol. In 1952, the outfit was ' " dedication to the job, doubled his salary during
changed to include blue jeans, a western- a ` ! those two months, and gave him a $150 bonus.
style s brit, bolo tie, and a straw cowboy ... j '' (,. After the station closed in 1957, it functioned
hat. The highway commissioners hired t - , x.r as storage at the MDT's Lima maintenance shop
attendants after a rigorous selection ��
` for the next 50 years. Amazingly, both the
rocess. Occasionall even the Governor .,- "' :- exterior and interior of the building were not
participated in hiring station attendants. By t-;;;.„..15 e , . :, 4 � changed, except for the addition of a sink in the
the late 1950s, the highway commission- �` interior. Intact port of entry stations are rare in
ers debated the continued need for the port Lima port of entry station — now Montana and the Lima station is an excellent
of entry stations (renamed Tourist Courtesy Stations in 1954), espe- representative of what was once an important part
cially after the Federal Aid Road Act of 1956 launched the Inter- of the state's tourism industry. It has been moved onto a concrete
state highway program. An inventory of the 13 stations, conducted foundation at the new rest area and it will, perhaps, function as an
by the highway department in 1957, showed that most were rim- interpretive site for the local historical society. So come on down
down and in dire need of upgrades. The impending
to Lima, check out the new rest area, and perhaps somebody call-
Interstate program and needed renovations proved enough for the ing "Howdy Stranger, Welcome to Montana!" will step out of the
old station and, once again, welcome people to the Treasure State.
7
•
II It t
MDT's mission is to serve the public by providing a transportation system and services
that emphasize quality, safety, cost effectiveness, economic vitality and sensitivity to the environment.
MONTANA
M CN fl 1 l
DEPARTMENT OFTRANSPORTATION
Rail, Transit & Planning Division Pre Sort Standard
Montana Department of Transportation U.S. Postage
2701 Prospect Avenue JAN 1 1 2011 J PAID
PO Box 201001 Helena, MT
Helena, Montana 59620-1001 CITY OF LAUREL • PerrnitNo. 141
800 - 714-7296
HONORABLE KENNETH E OLSON JR
OR POSTAL CUSTOMER
MAYOR OF LAUREL
CITY OF LAUREL
PO BOX 10
LAUREL MT 59044 -0010
Newsline is a quarterly publication of the Rail, Transit and Planning Division, Montana Department of Transportation.
6333 copies of this public document were published at an estimated cost of $0.46 per copy for a total of $2,921 which includes
$842 for printing and $2,079 for distribution.
MDT Wants Your Comments Contact Information
To receive a list of highway projects MDT plans to present to the Only the most frequently requested numbers are listed here. For an
Transportation Commission, visit http / /wwwmdtmtgov/ ` area or person not listed, call 800-714-7296 (in Montana only) or
pubinvolve/docs /trans comm /proposedcroj.pdf, or give us a 406- 444 - 3423. The TTY number is 406 - 444 -7696 or 800- 335 -7592.
call at 1-800- 714 -7296. You can mail your comments on Administrator (Lynn Zanto ...444 -3445
proposed projects to MDT at the following address or e-mail them Izanto @mt.gov
to mdtnewprofects @mt.gov. Bicyclist/Pedestrian (Mark Keeffe) 444 -9273
MDT Project Analysis . .......... mkeeffe@mt.gov
PO Box 201001 Highway Traffic Safety (Priscilla Sinclair) 444 -7417
Helena, MT 59620 -1001 • • psinclair @mt.gov
Map Orders 444 -6119
Inside This Issue .......... http / /www.mdt.mt.gov /travinfo /maps
Multirnodal P rograms (Doug McBroom) 444 -7289
.,., :.... ... :.:..... dmcbroom @mt.gov
Projects (Paul Johnson) ..... .... ..._ ..... .... .......... .......:: 444 -7259
a Difference in Montana's Economy 1 & 2
paujohnson@mt.gov
MDT y Secondary Roads (Wayne Noem)_ .. 444 -6109
Surface Transportation Program Reauthorization .......:. .......:..1 wnoem @mt.gov
Highway Safety Efforts Ma king a Difference ......:.. .......::..3 e d .... � in " E e .
MDT's New Web Site lan2live.mt. ou Road Data &Mapping (Ed Ereth} reth m
.......
p g 2 ... .....`. ....... .. ... .. . .... ....... .... .. eereth @mt.gov
MDT Delivers —Statewide Project Highlights ...: .......:.........4 & 5 Traffic Data (Becky Duke) 444 -6122
Safe Traveling and Survival Tips 6 bduke @mt.gov
Transit—Fall Transit Management Workshops' ...:.....6 Transit (Audrey Altums) ........ .. ` . ..... ........................... 444 -4210
Safe Routes to School . . . . . . : ; _ . . . . . . . . . . . ... . 6 ......:: ... ....:. ..... aallums @mt.gov
Lima Port of Entry Then.... Modern Rest Area Now 7 Statewide & Urban Planning (Zia Kazimi) 444 -7252
.....a:.. ....... ._ ............. zkazimi @mt.gov
Newsline Editor (Sandra Waddell) 444 -7614
swaddell @mt.gov
MDT attempts to provide accommodations for any known disability that may interfere with a person participating in any service, program, or activity of the Department. Alternative
accessible formats of this information will be provided upon request. For further information call (406)444 -3423, TTY (800)335 -7592, or the Montana Relay at 711
8
Transportation Assistance for Communities
Montana's local governments face numerous challenges in run off, rehabilitation and operation of historic transportation
improving and maintaining their transportation infrastructure structures and facilities. For more information, contact Mike
and services. Transportation needs outpace available Sherley at 444 -4221 or visit www.mdt.mt.gov /business /ctep t
funding at all levels. MDT administers many funding and
planning programs that help local governments address their Safe Routes to School (SRTS) - This program provides
local transportation needs. Following are some MDT admin- federal funding for efforts to improve the safety of K -8
istered programs that support local projects: students who walk or bicycle to school. Local governments,
tribal governments and school districts are eligible recipients of
Infrastructure this funding. Seventy percent of SRTS funding must go to
infrastructure improvements such asbicycle /pedestrian facilities
Surface Transportation including crosswalks, side - walks, and new or improved
Program -Urban - Federal bicycle /pedestrian routes to school. For more information,
and state matching funds are contact Audrey AIlums at 444 -4210 or visit www. mdt.mt.gov/
allocated to Montana's 15 pubinvolve /saferoutes /.
urban areas (areas with a
population greater than Montana Air & Congestion Initiative (MACI) - This unique
5,000) for improvements to Ea "Iatiamit" MDT program provides funds for strategies to proactively
the Urban Highway System. Priorities are identified at the address air quality issues related to carbon monoxide and
local level through established planning processes that particulate matter. Projects in eligible nonattainment or at -risk
include the public. Funds are primarily used for street areas are prioritized and selected based on air quality benefits.
reconstruction, rehabilitation, and traffic operation improve- Eligible projects have included the purchase of street sweepers
ments. For more information, contact Zia Kazimi at and flush trucks necessary to reduce particulate matter and the
444 -7252. funding of intersection improvements and signal synchroniza-
tion to reduce carbon monoxide emissions. For more informa-
Surface Transportation Program- Secondary - Federal and tion, contact Janet Kenny at 444 -7294.
state matching funds are allocated based on a statutory for- Transit - Federal funding programs administered by MDT
mula for improvements on Montana's Secondary Highway support community transit systems with operating, capital, and
System. Capital construction priorities are identified at the facility costs. A locally developed coordination plan is
local level and coordinated with MDT. Eligible activities required which must include general public services as well as
include reconstruction, rehabilitation, and pavement preser- services for the disabled and elderly. Federal Health and
vation improvements. For more information, contact Wayne Human Services funds may be used to match federal transit
Noem at 444 - 6109. funds. For more information, contact Audrey AIlums at
444 -4210 or visit www.mdt.mt.gov /business/
Fuel Tax Allocations - Counties and cities receive a portion grants_transit.shtml.
of state fuel tax receipts based on statutory formulas for the
construction, reconstruction, maintenance, and repair of rural Montana Rail Freight Loan Programs - MDT administers
roads and city or town streets and alleys. For more informa- two programs that provide loans for railroad branch line im-
tion, contact Ed Ereth at 444 -6111 or visit www.mdt.mt.gov/ provements including construction, reconstruction, or rehabili-
business /fueltax. tation of rail lines and related facilities. Eligible parties include
railroad owners and operators and certain port authorities. For
Urban Highway Pavement Preservation - Federal funds more information, contact Hal Fossum at 444 -6116.
and state matching funds are provided for cost - effective
treatments to Urban Highway System routes. Priorities are City Park Rest Areas - This program provides funding
identified through MDT district and local government assistance to local governments to maintain or improve existing
consultation based on pavement management systems main- City Park Rest Area facilities that MDT determines are
tained at the local level. These improvements preserve the adequate. Proposals for assistance must directly benefit the
system, delay roadway deterioration, and improve roadway traveling public. Improvements or expenditures must be
condition without adding capacity. For more information, reviewed and approved by MDT to be eligible for local
contact Sheila Ludlow at 444 -9193. government reimbursement. For more information, contact
Sheila Ludlow at 444 -9193.
Community Transportation Enhancement Program n 4
(CTEP) - Unlike enhancement programs in other states, ��` ,�-
where the state determines how enhancement funds are used,
Montana's unique CTEP approach provides funds by for-
mula to cities, counties, and tribal governments for locally 4.1 i' 1 s
selected enhancement projects. Eligible projects include - "-
bicycle and pedestrian facilities, landscaping and scenic
beautification, mitigation of water pollution due to highway
Non- Infrastructure modal transportation system. Interested parties can
Planning and Technical Assistance propose research topics by April 30 each year
Multimodal Transportation Plans - MDT provides finan- through MDT's annual solicitation process. Guide -
cial and technical support for transportation plan- lines are available at www.mdt.mt.gov /research/
ning in Montana communities beyond the three unique /solicit.shtml. For more information, contact
federally designated Metropolitan Planning Organi- Sue Sillick in MDT's Research Section at
zations. These cooperative planning efforts are 444 -7693.
usually managed by the local land -use planning
offices to ensure consistency with other planning State Highway Traffic Safety Programs - These
efforts. The plans help identify deficiencies, needs, programs provide funds to local coalitions, law
and funding to ensure an efficient, safe, and modern enforcement, and DUI Task Forces to promote the
transportation system. Contact Zia Kazimi at use of occupant restraints and prevent impaired
444 -7252 for more information. driving. For more information, contact Priscilla
Sinclair at 444 -7417.
Travel Demand Forecasting - MDT develops and main-
tains state -of -the -art computer models in Montana's Bicyclist and Pedestrian Information Clearinghouse -
larger communities to forecast future travel demand MDT's bicycle /pedestrian coordinator reviews
and analyze alternative transportation improvements planned construction projects for bicycle /pedestrian
to accommodate existing and future demand. MDT safety and access issues, and acts as a liaison
works with cities, counties, and other local govern- between MDT and bicycle /pedestrian interest
ment agencies in the development of these models, groups. For more information, contact Mark Keeffe
which help inform decisions about future transpor- at 444 -9273.
tation network needs. For more information, con- Training Courses - MDT periodically sponsors training
tact Zia Kazimi at 444 -7252. courses taught by national experts. Since 1997, for
Safety Planning - This MDT program provides technical example, MDT has sponsored eight courses in
and financial assistance to local governments for the bicyclist and pedestrian accommodation design
development of Community Transportation Safety which were attended by over 2225 state and local
Plans. Through a coordinated process, safety stake- engineers and planners.
holders and agencies identify the specific transpor-
tation safety issues in a community, develop strate- EMS Grant Program - The purpose of this program is to
gies to address those issues, and determine the provide competitive grants to volunteer emergency
responsible agency /person to monitor implementa- medical service providers for acquiring or leasing
tion of each strategy. Communities must demon- ambulances or emergency response vehicles, train -
strate a commitment to implement and monitor ing, communication equipment, and for medical
progress. For more information, contact Pam care equipment. For more information, contact Ian
Langve -Davis at 444 -7646. Payton at 444 -9238.
Systems Impact Analysis Process (SIAP) - MDT's SIAP Data Collection and Management
ensures a coordinated review of major develop- MDT collects and maintains information about Mon -
ments initiated outside of MDT that may signifi- tana's transportation system. This information is
cantly and permanently impact the state transporta- available to government entities and the public and
tion system. MDT coordinates development includes:
reviews with Montana's local governments to • A comprehensive location inventory of all
ensure their concerns are addressed and provides roads open to public travel in Montana,
technical assistance to local governments interested including basic physical characteristics
in developing local processes similar to SIAP. For such as length, width, and surface type.
more information, contact Mike Tierney at
444 -9416. • Traffic volume and classification data on
roads owned and/or operated by MDT
Corridor Planning Studies - MDT provides financial and (with some additional data on local roads).
technical support toward the development of corri- • Mapping and GIS services and products,
dor planning studies that may be requested by local including the official Montana State High -
governments. The goal of these studies is to better way map
scope projects before moving into the project devel- For more information, contact Bill Cloud at 444 -6114.
opment process to achieve the lowest level environ-
mental document possible while minimizing project Additional Support
delivery costs and time and providing early opportu Programs that benefit local governments are the result of
nities for public and resource agency participation. cooperative state and local efforts to distribute limited
For more information, contact Zia Kazimi at funding as fairly as possible. MDT is committed to
444 -7252. continued support of local transportation projects and
planning to ensure a safe and reliable transportation
Information & Education system for Montana communities. For more informa-
Research Programs MDT conducts research to tion, visit MDT's Rail, Transit and Planning Division
discover, develop, or extend knowledge needed to website at www .mdt.mt.gov /mdt /organizationl
operate, maintain and improve Montana's multi- railtran.shtml.