Ryegate, MT — The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) would like to announce and invite the public to comment on a proposal to resurface portions of S 238 and S 300. The section on S 238 (Rothiemay Road), north of Ryegate, begins at the end of the pavement just north of Womans Pocket Road and extends northerly about 5 miles, about one mile north of Hedgeville Road. The other section south of Ryegate, on S 300, begins about 3 miles south of the end of pavement, extends south and west 4.5 miles, and ends about 1 mile south of West Coulee Road.

Proposed work on S 238 includes applying a new gravel overlay, adding a culvert with minor ditch grading, updating signs, and potentially installing guardrail. Work on S 300 includes applying a new gravel overlay, replacing a bridge, and updating signs.

The purpose of the project is to preserve and extend the life of the existing roadway surfacing and improve the safety of the roadway for the traveling public.

Construction is tentatively planned for 2024 depending on completion of design and availability of funds. New right-of-way and relocation of utilities may be required around the bridge replacement. MDT staff will contact all affected landowners prior to doing survey work on their land. Staff will again contact landowners prior to construction regarding property acquisition and temporary construction permits.

An important part of properly planning for future projects is partnering with the community. The Montana Department of Transportation welcomes the public to provide ideas and comments on the proposed project. Comments may be submitted online at http://www.mdt.mt.gov/mdt/comment_form.shtml or in writing to Montana Department of Transportation, Billings office at PO Box 20437, Billings, MT 59104-0437. Please note that comments are for project UPN 9800000.

The public is encouraged to contact Billings District Administrator Rod Nelson at (406) 657-0229 or Project Manager Sam Baker at (406) 657‑0232.