Hutton Ranch Road to Whitefish Stage under construction
KALISPELL, Mont. (March 17, 2026) – The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), in partnership with the City of Kalispell, Schellinger Construction, and DJ&A Engineering, will resume construction in late March on the Reserve Drive – Hutton Ranch Road to Whitefish Stage Road project.
Final project completion is anticipated in November 2026. The construction schedule is weather-dependent and may change due to conditions or unforeseen circumstances.
“This continues to be a much-needed project for the Flathead Valley,” John Schmidt, MDT Missoula Acting District Administrator, said. “Multiple projects are taking place in this area over the next few years, all in different phases. We appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to move everything forward in a safe and timely fashion.”
The current traffic signals will remain active at the intersection of West Reserve Drive and Whitefish Stage Road until dedicated turn lanes are fully completed in 2026. These signals alternate the direction of traffic to safely manage left turns during construction. Drivers can anticipate delays up to 15 minutes in this location.
Construction hours are from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Drivers should plan for lane configuration changes along the project corridor and expect reduced speed limits. Please stay alert for construction workers and trucks entering or exiting the work zone.
This project includes expanding the driving surface on West Reserve Drive between Hutton Ranch Road and Whitefish Stage Road from three to five lanes, including a center turn lane and a shared-use path. The West Reserve Drive intersections with Hutton Ranch Road and Whitefish Stage Road will receive dedicated turn lanes, new traffic signals, and concrete surfacing.
This project aims to enhance roadway safety for all users, increase accessibility, and improve traffic flow on West Reserve Drive. MDT appreciates your continued patience and understanding during active construction.
Questions? Please reach out to kristine@bigskypublicrelations.com or call 406-207-4484 during business hours with questions or media inquiries. For additional information, visit the project webpage: mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/reservedrive.
To request an alternative accessible format of this document, please contact MDT’s ADA coordinator Matt Maze at 406-444-5416, Montana Relay Service at 711, or by email at mmaze@mt.gov.
031726_ReserveDrive_ConstructionResumes_PR