The project: IMEG was successful in assisting the Blackfeet Nation acquire a $649,250 Public Lands Highways Discretionary (PLHD) grant to design and construct the Highway 89 scenic turnout.

Project amenities: The design incorporated Blackfeet culture and artwork to produce an aesthetic vista with inspiring views of St. Mary Lake and the Rocky Mountains. The project included dyed concrete pads, concrete paved ADA compliant trails, steel sculptures, and stone masonry. IMEG further assisted the Blackfeet Nation in construction administration, bidding support, construction inspection, and material testing. Challenge: The Highway 89 Scenic Turnout project was bid as three bid packages and bond requirements were waived to increase local contractor participation. Although encouraging local contractors to participate, we found it difficult to enforce contractor deadlines without bonding. Solution: We better understand the challenges of Blackfeet Tribal contracting, including bonding, and have since developed alternative contracting measures to encourage local participation while maintaining the Tribe’s sovereign immunity and right to enforce contract timeframes.