21 June 2016

Bypass aesthetics — soundwalls, cranes, and bridges

It’s time for another look at progress on the stretch of the westside Kalispell bypass that’s within easy walking distance of my home, the stretch from Parkridge south to the intersection with Highway 2. Most of the earthmoving is finished, the roadway is smooth and easily (but not legally) driveable, sound walls are being erected, and bridges are slowly taking form. Paving should begin fairly soon.

Soundwall under construction at the intersection with Parkridge, the Whitefish Range in the background.

Soundwall construction detail. Larger image.

South from Parkridge. Larger image.

Soundwall between Parkridge and Three Mile Drive as seen from the bridge at Three Mile. Larger image.

The Two Mile Drive bridge under construction as photographed from the Three Mile bridge.

The Two Mile bridge construction site as seen from the Two Mile detour. Larger image.

The central pillar for the Two Mile bridge, photographed from the west abutment.

Collapsable safety rail on the north side of the Two Mile detour. This is a dangerous place to walk. I prefer keeping the rail between me and the road.