An association pushing for widening U. S. Highway 2 to a four-lane thoroughfare through Montana is embarking on a road trip to discuss its mission, including a stop in Havre Wednesday, Aug. 17.

“I have not, in my lifetime, seen the opportunities that exist in the region, ” Highway 2 Association President Bob Sivertsen said in a press release. “If we will but seize the moment we can help to revitalize our communities. Montana sets at the gateway to the strongest economies in North America: Alberta, Saskatchewan and North Dakota. ”

The trip, set to emphasize the message that improving the region’s transportation system will enhance economic development, will start with a meeting in Billings Aug. 16, followed by a breakfast meeting in Shelby Aug. 17 before the luncheon in Havre.

Those will be followed by a breakfast meeting in Glasgow Aug. 18.

A featured speaker at the meetings will be Joe Kiely of Limon, Colo., representing the Ports to Plains Alliance which is working to improve transportation and create a major trade corridor from Texas to Canada.

The Highway 2 Association has been working closely with Ports to Plains for several years to promote transportation improvements.

“Joe has a great Powerpoint presentation that highlights the opportunities and explains how Montana benefits, ” Sivertsen said, adding that members of the public are encouraged to attend any of the meetings to learn more about the opportunities Kiel will address.

People are asked to RSVP at laredoenterprises@msn.com by Friday, Aug. 12, if they plan to attend any of the meetings.