East 2nd Street reconstruction underway

Work has started on the East Second Street reconstruction project in Whitefish. The street will be reconstructed from just east of Larch Lane to the railroad tracks.

The $2.8 million project, funded largely with city resort tax revenue, is expected to continue through September.

The grade of the hill east of the Armory Road intersection will be reduced and a bike path will be built on the south side of the street.

The bike path will be funded by state Community Transportation Enhancement Program money.

Work includes clearing brush and trees, replacement of water, sewer and storm-drain facilities, construction of a bike path, new street lighting and new pavement with curb and gutter.

LHC has already started clearing trees and shrubs. This initial phase of the project involves clearing, grubbing and excavation along the north side of East Second Street within the right of way, driveway conduit sleeves, electrical vaults, temporary culverts and water service relocations.

Once this work is complete, the utility companies will have 75 days to relocate utilities prior to the main reconstruction project starting, City Manager Chuck Stearns said.

The contractor will have traffic control in place and emergency services will be put on notice.

Progress reports will be posted online at http://www.cityofwhitefish.org/public-works/projects.php.