Between the arrival of buttercups and beargrass, motorists can have confidence in the orange-cone blossom on I-90 and secondary infrastructures.

Transportation construction is a given in Montana, and the inconvenience is worth the end result of smooth, safe roadways. 

The Montana Department of Transportation, along with its construction partners, is launching multiple major projects along I-90 this spring, bringing improvements that will stretch from the Alberton Gorge area west to the Idaho border.

One of the most significant efforts is the Clark Fork River/Old Highway 10 Bridges project, located about 9.5 miles west of Alberton. The transportation department and Sletten Construction Companies will begin replacing the westbound bridge that carries I-90 over the Clark Fork River. The project is expected to span two construction seasons, with completion anticipated in fall 2027.

In addition to the bridge replacement, crews will also paint the bridge that crosses over Old Highway 10 and Elizabeth Lane this year. Travelers in the area should prepare for single-lane traffic, reduced speed limits, and possible width and length restrictions throughout the construction period. 

The work will also affect local access. Old Highway 10 West will be closed to the public between Tarkio East Fishing Access and the Triple Bridges–Alberton Gorge Recreational Access site. While the Clark Fork River itself will remain open for recreation during the 2026 construction season, the closed section will not be accessible from the east bank. Tarkio East Fishing Access Road, however, is expected to remain open.

Farther west, another major project will tackle a 3.5-mile stretch of I-90 beginning at the Montana-Idaho border and extending eastward. The state is partnering with Knife River, Inc.-Mountain Division on the I-90 Lookout Pass to Taft project, which is also expected to take two construction seasons to complete. 

This year’s work will focus on the eastbound lanes and includes replacing deteriorating pavement with more durable concrete. The project will also bring a number of upgrades, including improved safety features at the Lookout Pass Interchange, better drainage systems and culverts, new concrete barriers, and updated lighting and signage. 

During construction, traffic will be reduced to a single lane, with both directions often sharing the westbound side through crossovers. Drivers should expect lane shifts, reduced speeds, and occasional use of highway shoulders. Special accommodations are in place for wide-load vehicles. Loads measuring 12 feet or more must be staged and will only be allowed to pass through the construction zone between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., Monday through Friday.

Work on the Lookout Pass to Taft project is anticipated to begin the week of April 13. Officials note that the effort builds on last year’s Taft-West project, essentially extending improvements to the state line. MDT encourages motorists to stay informed about changing road conditions and restrictions by visiting 511mt.net and to use caution when traveling through construction zones. As always, drivers are urged to slow down, follow posted signage, and watch for workers.

The public is encouraged to contact Joan Redeen, Executive Assistant – Communications. at 406-396-1978 with any questions or comments.