Letter To The Editor

Happy New Year

The Hwy 2 Assoc continues it’s efforts, as it has for 22 years, to fulfill it’s Mission - “To Enhance the Economic Viability of Northern Montana Communities by constructing an Adequate Hwy # 2 that would allow communities to compete for and attract businesses”

Adequate has been defined by the business community in that 80% of businesses locate in or near communities that have a four lane highway.

Surveys have revealed that the # 1 consideration of a business that looks to locate or relocate, “Is there an Adequate Transportation System ?”

The Hwy 2 Corridor received a death blow when Interstate 94 was completed (mid 70’s) thru Glendive and South to Billings of which diverted 30% of the traffic from Highway # 2. That’s when businesses closed, people left Northern Montana and communities have never recovered.

Since it was a government action that decimated a trade corridor, we are making the case that Congress should appropriate additional funding to upgrade Highway # 2.

We are making the case that Northern Montana sets at the gateway to three of the strongest Economies in North America - Alberta, Saskatchewan & North Dakota.

However, due to a lack of an Adequate Hwy # 2, Commerce & Trade is skirting the corridor for the most part.

Northern Montana is setting on a “Gold Mine” it’s up to “We the People” to advocate for these highway upgrades that would allow our communities to grow and to prosper.

I’m an optimist, 2024 is the year, let’s make it happen.

Cordially

Bob Sivertsen

Hwy 2 Assoc. Pres