Date: September 8, 2006
Contact: Melissa Wilson, 406 888-7895

WEST GLACIER, MONT. – Officials at Glacier National Park report that the contract to replace a damaged concrete culvert on the Two Medicine Road has been awarded to Willow Creek Construction, of Browning, Mont. Officials also note that this replacement project will require the road into Two Medicine Valley be closed to vehicular traffic for four weeks, beginning October 2, 2006.

"We are very pleased that a local firm from Browning was awarded the contract," said Superintendent Mick Holm. He added, "This culvert replacement is critical due to the deteriorating condition of the culvert. Its replacement will prevent a future critical failure or severe flooding."

Hikers and bicyclists can still access Two Medicine. They will be allowed to walk through the construction area after a safe crossing opportunity has been indicated by the construction crew or as indicated by signs.

Project work will actually begin in mid-September, and visitors may experience very minor delays during this phase of the work. The October 2 closure will begin at the park boundary (at the Glacier National Park sign) on the Two Medicine Road; the culvert is approximately one half mile beyond this sign.

The culvert project will be administered by the Federal Highway Administration/Western Federal Lands Highway Division staff. The work will be completed by the end of October and is expected to cost approximately $350, 000.