Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes 

​CUS Department of Transportation’s Nationally Significant Federal Lands & Tribal Projects 

​

​

Challenge: Big Sky Public Relations (Big Sky PR) collaborated closely with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) and engineering partner, DJ&A, to craft a comprehensive grant application for federal funding under the US Department of Transportation’s Nationally Significant Federal Lands and Tribal Projects program. This initiative aims to address critical safety concerns along US Highway 93, a vital artery traversing the breathtaking landscapes and tribal territories of northwest Montana. Recognized for its scenic beauty, ecological richness, and cultural significance, this region is also confronted with the challenge of ensuring safe passage for travelers amidst its diverse wildlife and protected lands. 
 

​Approach: In addition to orchestrating media relations efforts, Big Sky PR took on the crucial task of engaging key stakeholders and garnering letters of support from a broad spectrum of voices, including tribal members, state and local officials, governmental bodies, businesses, and residents. 

​

Results: Through diligent collaboration with our partners, Big Sky PR successfully secured vital endorsements and support for the grant application that resulted in a grant funding award. As a result, numerous safety projects in the US 93 Ninepipe area located in western Montana are now in progress. Big Sky PR is proud to say that we are now also leading the public involvement efforts for both the design and construction phases of the US 93 Ninepipe projects. This includes work such as a wildlife overpass, shared-use path facilities, turn-lane additions, and widened shoulders.