Let’s Talk Spring Road Construction

It’s been a hot minute since our last post. The wonderful Big Sky PR team has been laser-focused on the projects, clients, and community initiatives that keep our work meaningful and impactful. But as the seasons shift, I’m reminded that so must our attention. It’s finally time for Montana’s (favorite) second season: road construction.

If you’ve lived through a few springs in our beautiful state, you know the drill: orange traffic control, detours, and delays. It’s tempting to tune it out. We all lead busy lives and are inundated with information coming at us from all directions. But what happens on our roads today sets the tone for how we move, connect, and thrive tomorrow.

As a PR professional, I see firsthand how a well-informed, engaged public can transform a frustrating inconvenience into a shared civic investment. Construction updates are more than noise—they're signals. Signals that progress is happening, that infrastructure is being renewed, and that our tax dollars are at work improving the streets you drive, bike, and walk on every single day.

So, how do we stay engaged?

1.      Follow the Updates—From the Source

Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) announcements, city and county websites, and their associated social media platforms offer construction updates, timelines, and route alternatives. These are coordinated with contractors doing the work and are often the most up-to-date resources. Most importantly, these sources are reliable and regularly updated. They will also provide contact information for a point person eager to share more details about what you may be looking for. If I’ve learned anything about working in construction, it’s that everyone is interested in something slightly different than their neighbor. If you’re not finding what you’re looking for, do not hesitate to contact that agency. Here are some of my go-to sites when looking for Missoula-area infrastructure/construction information:

o   MDT: Active Projects Map: https://www.511mt.net/

o   MDT construction updates: https://www.mdt.mt.gov/travinfo/construction.aspx

o   City of Missoula projects: https://www.ci.missoula.mt.us/2649/Projects

o   Missoula County projects: https://www.missoulacounty.us/government/public-works/road-bridge-division/road-projects

2.     Speak Up (Respectfully)

Attend community meetings, join virtual town halls, or send thoughtful feedback to your local representatives. Your voice adds dimension to the conversation and helps planners see the full picture. I’m fortunate to work with many local public works departments, planners and engineers. I’ve yet to meet someone who doesn’t genuinely care about their community. Folks are doing their very best with limited resources to deliver a quality project. Whatever they can do to support the public’s best interest, they will. Share your ideas!

3.     Be Patient

Construction zones are temporary; the benefits are long-term. A little patience goes a long way—for workers, fellow drivers, and frankly, for your peace of mind. I’ve heard stories of traffic control workers being yelled at, spat upon, and even injured by drivers frustrated with delays. Keep in mind that these are our friends and neighbors working to enhance our quality of life. They have hard jobs, and we should be thankful and respectful of their workspace!

In PR, we always say: perception is reality. But the public’s perception can only be as strong as the information it’s built on. Let’s make sure we’re building on facts, not frustration.

We’ll be back here more often—sharing insight, updates, and a few hard truths when needed. Until then, keep your eyes open, your GPS updated, and your perspective focused on the bigger picture.

Warmly,

Katie