July 2014-July 2015 

Schellinger Construction (on behalf of MDT) - Karrow to Mountainside

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Challenge:
In July 2014, Schellinger Construction began the second phase of the Highway 93 reconstruction west of Whitefish. While the improvements were necessary and long overdue, construction created significant inconvenience for nearby residents and businesses. Traffic disruptions, access issues, and construction-related uncertainty heightened frustration within an engaged community, making proactive communication and relationship management critical to the project’s success.

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Approach:
Big Sky Public Relations was brought on to lead a comprehensive public awareness and community outreach campaign in accordance with MDT requirements. Our team prioritized direct, personal communication with those most affected, including in-person outreach to adjacent neighbors prior to closures or service interruptions. We managed public meetings, coordinated closely with city leaders, secured positive media coverage, and served as a point of contact for questions and complaints. By maintaining consistent, transparent communication and responding quickly to concerns, we helped residents and businesses feel informed and heard throughout construction.

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Results:
Over the course of a year, the outreach campaign successfully reduced frustration and built trust between the project team and the Whitefish community. Proactive engagement and effective issue resolution helped foster a positive perception of the Karrow to Mountainside reconstruction and its managing entities, despite the challenges inherent in a major highway construction project.

 

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