Missoula, MT – In an effort to enhance safety for both travelers and wildlife, the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) revealed plans for significant upgrades along a stretch of Highway 93 between Post Creek and Eagle Pass Trail. Local residents, wildlife experts, and MDT officials gathered Thursday for a public meeting, where the department shared the proposed improvements, aimed at reducing accidents and improving wildlife crossings.
Cynthia Preston, a longtime St. Ignatius resident, was among those in attendance, voicing concerns about the treacherous nature of the highway, particularly the notorious turn at Eagle Pass Trail. “I’ve had more than a few close calls on this stretch,” she remarked. “It’s been a problem for a long time, especially at night when the turn is hard to see.”
In response to these safety issues, MDT’s Missoula and Kalispell District Engineer, John Schmidt, emphasized the importance of local input in shaping the project. “Local knowledge is always vital in planning,” he explained. “We collaborate closely with biologists and community members to create solutions that benefit both the people who use the highway daily and the wildlife that inhabit the area.”
One of the central components of the plan is the construction of a new, 500-foot bridge at Post Creek, designed specifically to accommodate grizzly bear passage. This bridge, a major upgrade to the existing structure, will not only improve vehicle safety but also provide a critical passage for wildlife, reducing the risk of animal-vehicle collisions.
In addition to the wildlife bridge, the project includes a shared walking path for pedestrians, which will provide a safer route for those traveling on foot. Eagle Pass Trail will also see a major intersection overhaul to improve its functionality and overall safety.
For residents like Preston, these improvements are crucial. “We need something that clearly marks the turn, especially at night,” she said, adding that clear signage and better road design are key to preventing future accidents.
Though full construction is not expected to begin until the summer of 2026, the project is slated to be completed by 2029. As MDT works to finalize its plans, it continues to engage with the community and wildlife experts to ensure the changes meet both human and environmental needs.
The Highway 93 improvements are a promising step toward a safer, more sustainable road for both drivers and wildlife in the St. Ignatius area. Local residents, like Preston, hope the project will finally bring the safety enhancements the route has long needed.
