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MDT presents Bearmouth/I-90 speed study; agency recommends signage and treatment, not lower limits
Summary
Montana Department of Transportation presented a speed study for I‑90 near Drummond/Bearmouth concluding the 80 mph limit is appropriate; MDT recommended targeting signage, warnings and roadway treatments to address crash hotspots tied to weather and driver behavior.
Joel Boucher of the Montana Department of Transportation presented a speed study to the Granite County Commission on April 7 covering I‑90 near Drummond and the Bearmouth area.
MDT reported that measured speeds indicate the existing 80 mph limit remains appropriate and that crashes in the corridor are driven mainly by weather (snow and ice), drivers traveling too fast for conditions, impaired driving and roadway features rather than the posted speed limit itself. Two crash hotspots were identified: an S‑curve area and the Drummond interchange.
MDT recommended focusing on non‑regulatory safety measures: improved warning signs, additional traveler information, targeted road treatment (sand/salt) in winter and possible roadway adjustments in hotspot locations. The agency asked the county to provide written comments within 60 days.
Commissioners and attendees discussed limited state budgets for road projects, an unstable hillside/slide area being monitored and coordination needs for future local projects such as Highway 348 and a proposed West South Main Street repair effort tied to unclear jurisdiction. No change to posted speed limits was proposed or adopted.
