Higgins Bridge logo

June 19-23, 2023

Striping is complete. Sletten Construction crews will be on-site for minor touch-up and clean-up activities in the coming weeks. No traffic impacts are anticipated.

This marks the end of the rehabilitation work on Beartracks Bridge. It has been a long project and we appreciate your patience and support throughout construction. The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and its partners are proud to share the rehabilitated Beartracks Bridge with our neighbors. The improved bridge will serve the community for many years to come.

If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484.

May 29 - June 2, 2023

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge the week of May 29.

Polymer overlay activities have concluded and striping operations have begun. Construction work will pause on Monday, May 29 in observance of Memorial Day, with work resuming on Tuesday morning. Single-lane travel will continue in each direction while crews stripe the roadway and shared-use path.

Sletten Construction crews have also repainted the white section of the west side shared-use path to reduce surface temperatures for animals and bare feet.

If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484.

May 22-26, 2023

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge the week of May 22.

Sletten Construction crews continue with polymer overlay operations. Wet weather has caused some delays but the overlay activities are expected to be completed early next week.

Traffic on the bridge has been reduced to single-lane travel in each direction, and the shared-use paths will be closed one at a time to complete the work.

Following the completion of the overlay activities, the shared-use paths will be painted to designate areas for bikes and pedestrians.

If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484.

May 15-19, 2023

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge the week of May 15.

Sletten Construction crews have begun polymer overlay operations. Polymer overlay is a protective sealant that will be added to the bridge deck and shared-use paths. As an added benefit, this overlay can improve traction on the surface of the bridge.

Adding the polymer overlay will take approximately 10 days to complete. During that time, drivers can expect reduced speeds and single-lane travel in each direction. The shared-use paths will need to be closed one at a time to complete the work.

Following the completion of the overlay activities, the shared-use paths will be painted to delineate areas for bikes and pedestrians.

If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484.

April 27, 2023

Final rehabilitation activities are anticipated to begin May 8, weather permitting. Crews will add a protective coating, called a polymer overlay, to the bridge deck. This work will take approximately 10 days to complete. During this time, drivers can expect reduced speeds and single-lane closures in each direction. Shared-use path closures will also be necessary to complete this work. Only one shared-use path will be closed at a time.

If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484.

January 16-20, 2023

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge the week of January 16.

Crews will be moving supplies and materials off site and preparing for a winter shutdown. Once materials are moved, all construction activities will pause for the winter. Permanent roadway striping and epoxy overlay activities will take place in the spring.

If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484.

January 9-13, 2023

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge the week of January 9.

Sletten crews will finish removing the bridge safe span. This is a temporary structure that has provided the crews with access to the underside of the bridge. No other activities are anticipated this week.

Please be mindful that crews may not be visible from the roadway above. Drivers are encouraged to slow down and proceed carefully through the work zone.

Permanent roadway striping and epoxy overlay activities will take place in the spring.

Weekly project updates will be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484.

December 26, 2022 - January 6, 2023

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge December 26-January 6.

As weather permits, crews will be conducting minor painting activities under the bridge and general project cleanup. Once this is completed, the bridge safe span will be removed. This is a temporary structure that has provided the crews access to the underside of the bridge.

Please be mindful that crews may not be visible from the roadway above. Drivers are encouraged to slow down and proceed carefully through the work zone.

Weekly project updates will be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484.

December 19-23, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge the week of December 19.

Sletten Construction crews will conduct various clean-up and minor painting operations this week. All of this work will take place under the bridge. Please be mindful that crews may not be visible from the roadway above. Drivers are encouraged to slow down and proceed carefully through the work zone.

As weather permits, roadway striping will take place. Striping activities require the roadway to be free of snow and ice and temperatures above freezing.

Weekly project updates will be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

December 13, 2022

Sletten Construction crews will conduct gusset plate replacement on Beartracks Bridge beginning Wednesday, December 14 and concluding by close of business on Thursday, December 15. A single lane of southbound traffic will remain open and northbound traffic will be rerouted to Madison Street. The west side shared-use path will also be closed while this work is completed. The east side path will remain open. Message boards are in place at both ends of the bridge to notify drivers of traffic control changes.

This work will primarily take place under the bridge and crews may not be visible from above. Please slow down and use caution while traveling through the work zone.

Weekly project updates will be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

December 12-16, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks (Higgins Avenue) Bridge during the week of December 12.

Construction on the bridge’s surface is wrapping up for the season and all weight restrictions have been lifted.

This week, Sletten Construction will continue work under the bridge to remove concrete deck forms. Gusset plates are also anticipated to be replaced, depending on material delivery and favorable weather conditions. While crews are working under the bridge, traffic will be open to a single lane of southbound traffic. Northbound traffic will be routed to Madison Street. The west side shared-use path will be closed while the east side will remain open to pedestrians. This work is anticipated to last for two days.

As weather permits, roadway striping will take place. Striping activities require the roadway to be free of snow and ice and temperatures above freezing. In looking at our forecast, this work may be a few weeks out. However, if the glowing orange ball in the sky graces us with its presence, crews will jump on the opportunity to complete striping. When this happens, we will be sure to send an additional update.

Don’t Crowd the Plow!

While driving, be on the lookout for snowplows and give operators room to work. Many plows are hit by private vehicles each winter, with the potential to cause harm to all parties involved. The plow truck and operator are taken out of service immediately following an incident.

Drive safely this winter and keep these tips in mind:

  • Don’t pass a plow when the TowPlow is deployed. The operator will periodically rotate the TowPlow back in line with the truck to allow vehicles to pass.
  • Be aware that, where there is one plow working, others may be nearby. The snow cloud created by one plow may obscure presence of additional plows in adjacent lanes.
  • When approaching a snowplow from the rear, reduce speed immediately.
  • When approaching an oncoming plow, don’t crowd the centerline.
  • Be patient. Plow operators know where they can pull over to let vehicles pass, but remember, the road in front of the plow is likely not as clear as the road behind it.

MDT has tools to help plan for conditions so you can reach your destination safely. Find more plow safety information and winter driving tips on MDT's Vision Zero Winter Driving page. Current construction information, width restrictions, and road conditions throughout Montana can be found at 511mt.net.

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

December 5-9, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge during the week of December 5.

Construction on the surface of the bridge is wrapping up and all weight restrictions have been lifted. This week, Sletten Construction will continue work under the bridge to remove concrete deck forms.

As weather permits, roadway striping will take place. Striping activities require the roadway to be free of snow and ice and temperatures above freezing.

A temporary support structure will be constructed under the bridge in the coming weeks to facilitate gusset plate replacement. No traffic impacts are anticipated while the support structure is constructed. A single day of traffic control will be necessary while gusset plates are replaced; however, a date for this work has yet to be determined.

The bridge is currently open to a single lane of southbound traffic and northbound traffic is being rerouted to the Madison Street Bridge. The shared-use paths remain open on both sides of the bridge.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

November 28-December 2, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge during the week of November 28.

All weight restrictions have been lifted and one traffic lane in each direction is now open. This week, Sletten Construction will remove concrete deck forms under the bridge. While deck forms are being removed, crews may not be visible from the road.

As weather permits, roadway striping will take place. Striping activities require the roadway to be free of snow and ice and temperatures above freezing.

A temporary support structure will be constructed under the bridge in the coming weeks to facilitate gusset plate replacement. No traffic impacts are anticipated while the support structure is constructed. A single day of traffic control will be necessary while gusset plates are replaced; however, a date for this work has yet to be determined.

The bridge is currently open to a single lane of southbound traffic and northbound traffic is being rerouted to the Madison Street Bridge. The shared-use paths remain open on both sides of the bridge.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

November 21-25, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge during the week of November 21.

There is currently a five-ton (10,000 pound) weight restriction on the bridge. The weight restriction is in place to minimize vibration and impact on the freshly poured concrete between the two halves of the bridge. It is anticipated that the weight restriction will be lifted by Sunday, November 20.

This week, Sletten Construction will wrap up activities on the bridge’s west side. Crews will be removing barrier rail, grinding concrete, and striping in preparation for the bridge reopening to additional traffic lanes. All work is weather dependent. It is anticipated that the bridge will open to at least one traffic lane in each direction in time for the Thanksgiving holiday.

In the coming weeks, a temporary support structure will be constructed under the bridge to facilitate gusset plate replacement. No traffic impacts are anticipated while the support structure is constructed. A single day of traffic control will be necessary while gusset plates are replaced; however, a date for this work has not yet been determined.

The bridge is currently open to a single lane of southbound traffic and northbound traffic is being rerouted to the Madison Street Bridge. The shared-use paths remain open on both sides of the bridge.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

November 14-18, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of November 14.

Sletten Construction crews are wrapping up west side repairs and concrete work is anticipated for this week. While west side concrete operations are completed, the bridge will remain open to a single lane of southbound traffic and northbound traffic will be rerouted to the Madison Street Bridge. The shared-use paths on both sides of the bridge will remain open during west side construction. All construction activities are weather dependent.

Once all west side operations are complete, the 21-ton weight restriction will be lifted, and the bridge will open to four lanes of traffic. Some minor construction activities remain and traffic control measures can be expected in the future.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

November 7-11, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of November 7.

Sletten Construction crews have begun west side repairs. While west side construction is underway, the bridge will remain open to a single lane of southbound traffic and northbound traffic will be rerouted to the Madison Street Bridge. The shared-use paths on both sides of the bridge will remain open as west side repairs are completed. Repairs are anticipated to continue for the next three weeks.

Some minor activities, including removal of deck forms and paint touch up, are taking place on the underside of the bridge. No traffic impacts are anticipated for this work.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

October 31 - November 4, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of October 31.

Sletten Construction crews will begin west side bridge repairs this week. While west side construction is underway, the bridge will be open to a single lane of southbound traffic and northbound traffic will be rerouted to the Madison Street Bridge. The shared-use paths on both sides of the bridge will remain open while the west side repairs are completed. Repairs are anticipated to continue for approximately four weeks.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

October 24-28, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of October 24.

Sletten Construction crews are preparing for west side bridge repairs, which are anticipated to begin the week of October 31. Repairs will address damage to several steel bridge beams. Construction is expected to take approximately 4 weeks to complete. Once completed, the current west side 21-ton weight restriction will be lifted.

While west side construction is underway, the bridge will be open to a single lane of southbound traffic, and northbound traffic will be rerouted to the Madison Street Bridge. The shared use paths on both sides of the bridge will remain open while the west side repairs are completed.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

October 17-24, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of October 17.

Sletten Construction crews have substantially completed east side construction, and the shared-use paths are open on both sides of Beartracks Bridge. West side repairs will begin within the next few weeks as soon as materials become available. These repairs will correct issues necessitating the current west side weight restrictions. Once the west side repairs are complete, the weight restriction will be lifted, and the bridge will be fully open to traffic.

While west side construction is underway, the bridge will be open to a single lane of southbound traffic, and northbound traffic will be rerouted to the Madison Street Bridge. Both shared-use paths will remain open throughout the remainder of construction.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

October 10-14, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of October 10.

Work on the east side of Beartracks Bridge is wrapping up. All east side repairs are anticipated for completion Friday, October 7.

The east side shared-use path will open Monday, October 10, for pedestrian and bicycle use.

Repairs on the west side of the bridge are anticipated to begin within the next few weeks. Crews will begin repairs once all materials are in hand. While west side construction is underway, the bridge will be open to a single lane of southbound traffic, while northbound traffic will be rerouted to the Madison Street Bridge. The shared-use path on both sides of the bridge will remain open while construction is underway.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

October 3-7, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of October 3.

Sletten crews will be paving their construction equipment staging area on the north end of the project, underneath the bridge. No additional traffic impacts are anticipated but parking will be limited.

Crews are also preparing to start installing pedestrian railing, along with electrical lighting work.

West side repair work will begin soon once east side construction is completed and all materials are in hand. While west side construction is underway, the bride will be open to a single lane of southbound traffic while northbound traffic will be rerouted to the Madison Street Bridge. The shared-use path on both sides of the bridge will remain open while construction is underway.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 5. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

September 26-30, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of September 26.

All east side concrete work is complete. In the coming week, Sletten Construction crews will be removing concrete forms, setting vehicle and pedestrian railing, and conducting general site clean-up.

West side repair work will begin once east side construction is completed and all materials are in hand. While west side construction is underway, the bride will be open to a single lane of southbound traffic while northbound traffic will be rerouted to the Madison Street Bridge. The shared-use path on both sides of the bridge will remain open while construction is underway.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 5. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

September 19-23, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of September 19.

Sletten construction crews have completed concrete work on the bridge's east side. While the concrete cures, crews will install bridge and pedestrian railing and conduct miscellaneous construction operations.

West side bridge repairs will be necessary and will begin once east side construction is completed and all materials are in hand. While these repairs are underway, northbound traffic will be detoured to the Madison Street Bridge. The shared-use path on both sides of the bridge will remain open while west-side repair work is conducted.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 5. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

September 12-16, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of September 12.

Concrete work is wrapping up. Sletten Construction crews will pour the south end expansion joint on Tuesday. The expansion joints are the sections that allow the bridge to expand and contract with the changing temperatures. Crews anticipate the completion of pedestrian and vehicle curb pours this week as well.

Once the concrete has had adequate time to cure, bridge and pedestrian railing will be installed. This work will likely occur the week of September 19. Miscellaneous construction activities are anticipated for the last week of September.

Repair work will be necessary on the west side of the bridge. These repairs will begin once the east side construction activities are complete. While these repairs are underway, northbound traffic will be detoured to the Madison Street Bridge. The shared-use path on both sides of the bridge will remain open while west side repair work is conducted. More information about the timeline for these repairs will be provided as it is available.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 5. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

September 5-9, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of September 5.

Work will pause on Monday, September 5, for the Labor Day holiday and resume Tuesday, September 6.

Concrete work is moving forward, and Sletten Construction crews will be preparing to pour the vehicle and pedestrian curb on the bridge's east side. No additional traffic impacts are anticipated, but drivers are encouraged to be mindful of speed and weight restrictions and watch for construction vehicles entering and exiting the work zone.

Half of the west side shared-use path has been painted, and surface temperatures have been consistently lower on the painted section. Pedestrians are encouraged to be mindful during the heat of the day and keep bare feet and animal paws on the painted portion of the bridge path.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 7. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

August 29-September 2, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of August 29.

Concrete pours have begun on the east side of the bridge. Sletten Construction crews will conduct concrete pours on Monday, August 29 and Friday, September 2, beginning at 5 a.m. The time between pours will be used to allow the concrete to cure and to prepare curb forms. No additional traffic impacts are anticipated. Drivers are encouraged to watch for construction vehicles entering and exiting the work zone.

Half of the west side shared-use path has been painted, and surface temperatures have been consistently lower on the painted section. Pedestrians are encouraged to be mindful during the heat of the day and keep bare feet and animal paws on the painted portion of the bridge path.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 7. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

August 22-26, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of August 22.

Sletten construction crews have wrapped up prep work and concrete pours are anticipated this week. No bridge closures or additional traffic impacts are anticipated during the concrete pour process. Concrete work will continue for approximately two weeks. The concrete will require 28 days to cure before it is ready to hold traffic.

Half of the west side shared-use path has been painted, and surface temperatures have been consistently lower on the painted section. Pedestrians are encouraged to be mindful during the heat of the day and keep bare feet and animal paws on the painted portion of the bridge path.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 7. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

August 15-19, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of August 15.

Sletten Construction crews are completing the last of the concrete prep work. A machine used for concrete deck finishing will be placed on the bridge this week. The finishing machine runs on rails installed on both sides of the bridge deck and will be used to check the deck grade before concrete is poured. This same machine will be used as concrete is poured to create a uniform deck finish. Concrete pours are anticipated to begin the week of August 22. Concrete pours will take approximately two weeks. Once poured, the concrete will require 28 days to cure before it will be ready to hold traffic.

Half of the west side shared-use path has been painted to reduce surface temperatures. A second coat may be necessary to ensure longevity, but so far, surface temperatures on the painted section have been reduced by 40-45 degrees.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 7. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

August 8-12, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of August 8.

Sletten Construction crews are completing concrete preparations on the east side of Beartracks Bridge. Final preparations will take approximately two weeks to complete and concrete pours are anticipated to begin the week of August 22.

Half of the west side shared-use path has been painted to reduce surface temperatures. A second coat may be necessary to ensure longevity, but so far, surface temperatures on the painted section have been reduced by 40-45 degrees.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 7. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

August 1-5, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project during the week of August 1.

Preparations for concrete work are moving forward as crews continue with rebar installation. Concrete pours are anticipated to begin mid-August. This construction timeline is dependent upon material availability and weather conditions.

Crews have also been painting the shared-use path on the west side of the bridge. Paint is being added to reduce surface temperatures. The painted section will be widened to accommodate more pedestrian traffic.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 3. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

July 25-29, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge Rehabilitation project during the week of July 25.

Concrete preparations continue on the east side of Beartracks Bridge. Rebar installation will need to be completed before concrete pours can begin. Concrete work will include the shared use path, curbing, and the bridge deck. Once poured the concrete bridge deck will require 28 days to cure before it is ready to hold traffic.

Summer temperatures have arrived, and the surface of the shared-use path may be too hot for animal paws and bare feet. The white section of the path will need to be repainted to reduce the surface temperatures. Four test sections were painted, and crews have been monitoring them to determine the best option for heat reduction and durability. The new paint has been ordered, and a section of the shared-use path will be repainted as soon as the materials arrive. In the meantime, please be mindful of hot surfaces and use caution when using the shared-use path.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 3. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

July 18-22, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge Rehabilitation project during the week of July 18.

Sletten construction crews are installing rebar. This work will continue for the next couple of weeks. The last of the painting operations may continue early in the week. Concrete work is anticipated to begin the week of July 25.

Summer temperatures have arrived, and the surface of the shared-use path may be too hot for animal paws and bare feet. The white section of the path will need to be repainted to reduce the surface temperatures. Four test sections were painted, and crews have been monitoring them to determine the best option for heat reduction and durability. The new paint has been ordered, and a section of the shared-use path will be repainted as soon as the materials arrive. In the meantime, please be mindful of hot surfaces and use caution when using the shared-use path.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 3. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

July 11-15, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge Rehabilitation project during the week of July 11.

Girder repairs are complete on the east side of Beartracks Bridge. Sletten Construction crews are beginning rebar installation in preparation for concrete work. Rebar operations are anticipated to wrap up early the week of July 18 and concrete pours will begin. The concrete will require 28 days to cure before it will be ready to hold traffic.

Summer temperatures have arrived, and the surface of the shared-use path may be too hot for animal paws and bare feet. The white section of the path will need to be repainted to reduce the surface temperatures. Four test sections were painted, and crews have been monitoring them to determine the best option for heat reduction and durability. The new paint has been ordered, and a section of the shared-use path will be repainted as soon as the materials arrive. In the meantime, please be mindful of hot surfaces and use caution when using the shared-use path.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 3. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

July 4-8, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge Rehabilitation project during the week of July 4.

Sletten crews will begin shear stud placement in preparation for concrete work on the east side of Beartracks Bridge. Shear studs are steel pins that connect the structural beams to the concrete bridge deck. Painting operations will take place on the bridge's underside, and one to two days of trail closures will be necessary while this work is completed.

Work will pause Monday, July 4, for the Independence Day holiday and resume Tuesday, July 5.

Summer temperatures have arrived, and the surface of the shared-use path may be too hot for animal paws and bare feet. The white section of the path will need to be repainted to reduce the surface temperatures. Four test sections were painted, and crews have been monitoring them to determine the best option for heat reduction and durability. The new paint has been ordered, and a section of the shared-use path will be repainted as soon as the materials arrive. In the meantime, please be mindful of hot surfaces and use caution when using the shared-use path.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

June 27-July 1, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge for the week of June 27.

Sletten crews continue with girder repairs and deck forms on the bridge’s east side as material availability allows. Once repairs are complete, concrete work will begin. The west side remains open for two-way traffic and a 21-ton weight restriction remains in place.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

June 20-24, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge for the week of June 20.

Crews continue with repairs on the bridge’s east side as material availability allows. Once repairs are complete, concrete work will begin. The west side remains open for two-way traffic and a 21-ton weight restriction remains in place.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

June 13-17, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge for the week of June 13.

We know the community is ready for the bridge construction to be finished. We feel the same way! Unforeseen circumstances and material shortages have delayed project completion, but Sletten crews are working hard to complete the work as material availability allows. The project team is looking forward to delivering a new and improved bridge to the community as quickly as possible.

As girder plates become available, crews are continuing with bridge repairs and deck forms. Once the repairs are completed, shear studs, the components that lock the girder into the concrete, will be installed. Rebar installation will be the final step before concrete work begins. This work and the construction timeline are material dependent.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

There are over 73,000* miles of roads open to public travel in our state (including nearly 12,923 miles of MDT routes) that accommodate nearly 13 billion annual vehicle miles traveled (AVMT). Simply put, roads and roadways (including bridges) keep our great state connected and moving forward! The third Tuesday in June marks Good Roads Day – _designated by the Montana Legislature in 1947, whereby the people of the state are asked to contribute toward the improvement and safety of public highways (MCA 60-1-104). For MDT, building “good roads” takes time and means a continuous planning process that is underway long before ground is ever broken on a project. It can take eight years to complete a road project, but long-range planning starts anywhere from 1-20 years prior to the project start date. As transportation needs outpace revenue 3 to 1, MDT focuses on safety and preserving and maintaining transportation infrastructure as top priorities; in other words, keeping Montana’s good roads in good order. Join MDT in celebrating Good Roads Day on June 21, 2022, and share what #GoodRoads mean to you!

*Find more facts about funding and Montana’s roads in MDT’s Fact Book.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/85444266567?pwd=eVJyaGE2aXVIVWNkVkZUOXBnSS9rUT09
Passcode: 786920
Join by Telephone
+1 213 338 8477 or +1 206 337 9723 or +1 646 558 8656
Webinar ID: 854 4426 6567
Passcode: 786920
Find your local number: https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq
Join by SIP
85444266567@zoomcrc.com
Passcode: 786920

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

June 6-10, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge for the week of June 6.

The project continues to experience material shortages due to supply chain issues. Sletten Construction crews are moving forward with girder repairs as material availability allows. Deck form installation continues in preparation for pouring the concrete bridge deck.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

Seat Belts Save Lives! Buckle Up, Montana.

For many Montanans, Memorial Day weekend kicks off the start of summer travel, culminating with Labor Day weekend. Unfortunately, these summer months can also be some of the deadliest on Montana’s roads due to increased motor vehicle crashes. As part of a nationwide “Click It or Ticket” mobilization running from May 23 through June 5, 2022, law enforcement agencies and the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) will be out to educate motorists and enforce Montana’s seat belt law statewide. Before you make plans to travel this Memorial Day weekend, commit to always buckle up before you go, and insist your friends and family do the same. Using your seat belt is your best defense against serious injury or death in the event you’re in a crash. This is a Vision Zero Message from the Montana Department of Transportation. Learn more about the goal of Vision Zero and seat belt safety.

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

May 30-June 3, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge for the week of May 30.

Work will pause on Monday, May 30, in honor of Memorial Day and resume on Tuesday, May 31.

Supply issues have caused a few delays in construction progress, however, Sletten crews are moving forward with girder plate replacement on the east side of the bridge. Girder repairs and decking operations will continue for the next few weeks. Rebar placement is anticipated to begin at the end of June as the final step before the concrete bridge deck is poured. Concrete work will likely begin in early July.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays

Seat Belts Save Lives! Buckle Up, Montana.

For many Montanans, Memorial Day weekend kicks off the start of summer travel, culminating with Labor Day weekend. Unfortunately, these summer months can also be some of the deadliest on Montana’s roads due to increased motor vehicle crashes. As part of a nationwide “Click It or Ticket” mobilization running from May 23 through June 5, 2022, law enforcement agencies and the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) will be out to educate motorists and enforce Montana’s seat belt law statewide. Before you make plans to travel this Memorial Day weekend, commit to always buckle up before you go, and insist your friends and family do the same. Using your seat belt is your best defense against serious injury or death in the event you’re in a crash. This is a Vision Zero Message from the Montana Department of Transportation. Learn more about the goal of Vision Zero and seat belt safety.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at noon. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 1. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

May 23-27, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge for the week of May 23.

Sletten crews are finishing up the final girder plate installation, and preparations are being made for concrete work. Bridge deck forms are being set, and rebar work will begin upon completion of girder repairs. Placement of deck forms and rebar are the final tasks before crews start pouring the concrete bridge deck. Remember, crews are not always visible from the roadway, but they are working hard to finish repair operations and begin concrete work.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

Seat Belts Save Lives! Buckle Up, Montana.

For many Montanans, Memorial Day weekend kicks off the start of summer travel, culminating with Labor Day weekend. Unfortunately, these summer months can also be some of the deadliest on Montana’s roads due to increased motor vehicle crashes. As part of a nationwide “Click It or Ticket” mobilization running from May 23 through June 5, 2022, law enforcement agencies and the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) will be out to educate motorists and enforce Montana’s seat belt law statewide. Before you make plans to travel this Memorial Day weekend, commit to always buckle up before you go, and insist your friends and family do the same. Using your seat belt is your best defense against serious injury or death in the event you’re in a crash. This is a Vision Zero Message from the Montana Department of Transportation. Learn more about the goal of Vision Zero and seat belt safety.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at noon. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 1. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

May 16-20, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge for the week of May 16.

Sletten crews are adding repair plates to the east side bridge girders. Girders are large outside beams that distribute the load to the base of the bridge. Steel repair plates are bolted to the top of the beams to add strength and stability to areas that have deteriorated or need repair. Crews are meticulously removing old rivets from sections of the beam then using new galvanized bolts to secure the plate to the girder. Deck forms are also being added so the concrete bridge deck can be poured as soon as the repair work is complete. Remember, crews are not always visible from the roadway, but they are working hard to deliver a new and improved bridge.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at noon. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 1. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

May 9-13, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge for the week of May 9.

Sletten Construction crews are moving forward with east-side girder repairs. Remember, girders are the large outside beams connected to the base of the bridge. The repairs require removal of old bolts, placement of repair plates, drilling guide holes, and attaching the plates with special galvanized bolts. This is meticulous work done by hand. Crews are harnessed to safety lines while completing much of this work on their hands and knees. As you drive over the bridge, you probably won’t see a lot of large equipment and dozens of workers, but crew members are present and working hard to complete this important project. Girder repairs are anticipated to continue for the next couple of weeks.

Please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at noon. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 1. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

May 2-6, 2022

Here’s what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge for the week of May 2.

Sletten Construction crews are moving forward with east-side girder repairs. Remember, girders are the large outside beams connected to the substructure or base of the bridge. These repairs are anticipated to continue for the next couple of weeks.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at noon. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 4. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

April 25-29, 2022

April 29 is National Arbor Day! Wood you believe the first arbor day was celebrated 150 years ago?

In honor of our leafy friends, please enjoy this special Arbor Day edition of the Higgins Avenue Bridge Rehabilitation update. I promise not to make it too sappy!

I know you’ve been pining for it, here is the update on Beartracks Bridge for the week of April 25.

The bridge is getting more spruced-up every day. Sletten Construction crews are continuing deck form work. They are also branching out and girder repairs have begun on the bridge’s east side.

If your travel root takes you across the bridge, please remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

That’s it in a nutshell. We appreciate your patience while we complete this important project. I know puns aren’t always poplar, so I also appreciate your tolerance of my a-corny jokes. I’ll leaf you alone and let you get back to enjoying a beau-tree-ful April in Montana.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at noon. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 4. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

April 18-22, 2022

Here is what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge the week of April 18.

Crews are in the final stages of preparing for girder repairs, which will likely begin next week. These repairs will be happening on the east side of the bridge and will be the focus of next week’s work.

Girders are large beams that provide structural support to the bridge, so these must be repaired and rehabilitated to extend the bridge’s life. After these repairs take place, crews will begin adding the bridge deck.

Remember the three Ss of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at noon. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 4. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

April 11-15, 2022

April 11-15 is National Work Zone Awareness Week.

WORK ZONE FACTS

  • Most work zone crashes are caused by inattentive or distracted drivers.
  • Speeding, like driving too fast for conditions, is a leading cause of fatal work zone crashes.
  • More work zone crashes occurred in the daytime compared to nighttime.
  • Fatal crashes occurred more often during the months of May through September.
  • In work zone crashes, it is most often drivers or their passengers that are killed or injured.

Safety is MDT’s top priority. You can do your part by remembering to slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays. Thank you for helping MDT and Sletten Construction ensure that everyone is safe in the work zone!

Here is what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge the week of April 11.

Things are taking shape on the east side of the bridge. Crews are building and reinforcing deck forms in preparation for adding the bridge deck. Deck forms act as a framework and support for the top portion of the bridge.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at noon. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 4. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

April 4-8, 2022

Here’s what is happening on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of April 4.

Crews will be preparing for girder repairs on the east side of the bridge. Repairs to stringers and larger outside girders will take place in the coming weeks. Once completed, crews will prepare to add the bridge deck.

I bet you are wondering what stringers and girders are. What do they do? And what makes them different? Well, I am glad you asked!

Stringers are structural bridge supports that can be made of wood, concrete, or steel. These supports run parallel to each other to provide support for the bridge deck, or the surface cars drive on. In the photo below, you can see the exposed bridge stringers. They are the long steel beams running the length of the bridge inside the exterior framework, marked with a blue S. The stringers transfer the load to the diaphragm, those are the supports between the stringers. The load is then transferred from the diaphragm to the outside girders.

Bridge girders are also large beams that provide support to the bridge. In the photo below, the girders can be seen on the sides of the structure, marked with a red G. They are much larger than the stringers. The girders are the only things supported by the concrete substructure.

Higgins Bridge girders

The repair and rehabilitation of these structural supports will ensure the life of the bridge extends for many years to come.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at noon. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

March 28 - April 1, 2022

Here’s what is happening on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula on March 28.

Crews have begun bridge deck operations and will be setting deck forms on the bridge’s east side. No additional traffic impacts or closures are anticipated while this work is completed. Reduced speeds and weight restrictions remain in place on the west side of the bridge.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at noon. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

March 21-25, 2022

Here's what is happening on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of March 21.

The bridge beams have arrived, and installation has already taken place. In the coming week, crews will be constructing the work platform necessary for bridge deck installation.

We appreciate your patience as we have waited out material shortages and your continued support as we move this project toward completion.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

March 16, 2022

The long-awaited bridge beams are expected to arrive on March 16. Crews will begin beam installation as quickly as possible upon delivery. Beams can be set on both ends of the open bridge deck without disruption to traffic. Placement of beams directly over the river will require equipment access from the west side of the bridge. Nighttime bridge closures will be necessary to perform this work.

The bridge will be closed Thursday, March 17 beginning at 8 p.m. through Friday morning at 7 a.m. All vehicle traffic will need to use alternate routes during this time. Message boards are in place at both ends of the bridge to indicate closure dates and times. The pedestrian walkway will remain open.

March 14-18, 2022

Here's what is happening on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of March 14.

Material shortages continue to impact construction progress. Bridge beams anticipated last week have not yet arrived. While there is reason to hope that the beams will be here within the week, additional delays are possible. Crews will begin beam installation as soon as materials become available. Nighttime bridge closures between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. will be necessary while beams are installed. Watch for message boards near the project site for up-to-date closure information.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

March 7-11, 2022

Things are marching along on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of March 7.

Additional delays have pushed the arrival of the bridge beams to early this week. Crews will begin placing the stringers as quickly as possible upon their arrival. Nighttime bridge closures between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. will be necessary while installation occurs. Depending on the arrival date, closures could begin as early as Monday night, March 7. Message boards will be in place to provide up-to-date closure information and detour routes.

Once the beams are in place, crews will begin decking the east side of the bridge, bringing us that much closer to a completed project.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

February 28 - March 4, 2022

Things are marching along on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of February 28.

Bridge beams, or stringers, are anticipated to arrive late in the week. Crews will begin placing the stringers as quickly as possible upon their arrival. Nighttime bridge closures between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. will be necessary while installation occurs. Depending on the arrival date, closures could begin as early as Thursday night, March 3. No closures will occur over the weekend. Message boards will be in place to provide up-to-date closure information and detour routes.

An additional update will be provided as more information becomes available.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

February 21-25, 2022

Here is what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of February 21.

Work will pause February 21 in observance of the Presidents' Day holiday and will resume February 22.

Crews are still waiting for new bridge beams to arrive. In the meantime, grinding work on the bearings will be conducted in preparation for beam replacement.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

February 14-18, 2022

Here is what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of February 14.

The remaining prep work for beam replacement will take place this week while crews await the arrival of the new bridge beams. Stillwater Electric will also be on-site to continue the installation of electrical conduit.

No changes to travel are expected during this time. Please be mindful of weight and speed restrictions and travel carefully through the work zone.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

February 7-11, 2022

Here is what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of February 7.

Crews are still waiting for the new bridge beams to arrive. All major construction activities that can be done with available materials have been completed. While crews await the arrival of the bridge beams, Stillwater Electric will be on site to install electrical conduit. An inspector will also be at the project site this week to conduct necessary bridge inspections.

No changes to travel are expected during this time. Please be mindful of weight and speed restrictions and travel carefully through the work zone.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

January 31–February 4, 2022

Here is what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of January 31.

Supply chain issues are unfortunately affecting us all. Crews have completed the beam replacement activities that they could do with the available materials and are pausing on further installation until new beams are received. In the meantime, residents may see crews working off to the side on construction activities. No significant impacts to travel are expected during this time. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we gather further materials.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

January 24-28, 2022

Here is what’s happening on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of January 24.

Beam replacement is moving forward. The old beams have been removed in preparation for new beam installation. New beams will be installed as soon as they become available. The new beams are anticipated to arrive within the next couple of weeks.

In the meantime, crews are prepping the deck for beam installation and taking care of miscellaneous construction activities.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 895 5313 6307

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keCX15gXjL

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

January 17-21, 2022

"If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl but, by all means, keep moving."
~ Martin Luther King Jr.

Construction continues to move forward on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of January 17.

Work will pause Monday, January 17, in observance of the Martin Luther King holiday and resume Tuesday, January 18.

Beam replacement preparations are continuing this week. Bridge beams, also called stringers, are anticipated for arrival within the next couple of weeks. In preparation for the material arrival, crews will begin the process of removing the old stringers. This work will require nighttime bridge closures.

Nighttime closures are anticipated for Tuesday, January 18 and possibly Wednesday, January 19, beginning at 8 p.m. and continuing to 7 a.m. All traffic will need to take alternate routes during bridge closures. Message boards will be in place to indicate closure dates and times.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/89553136307?pwd=enNtYjFWVkxiY0g0dW9IWmQ0SUE3dz09

Passcode: 259717

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 259717

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

January 10-14, 2022

Winter is certainly upon us, but construction is moving forward on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of January 10.

Crews have been preparing the east side of the bridge for beam replacement. Bridge beams are anticipated to arrive in the coming week. Upon arrival, the new beams will be added systematically, beginning at each end of the open section, and finishing in the center. Some beam replacement directly over the river will require nighttime closures of the west side of the bridge for equipment access. Nighttime closures will take place from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. During this time, all drivers will need to take alternate routes.

Closure dates are dependent upon material arrival. Additional updates will be provided, and digital road signs will be in place once closure dates are finalized.

As the snow continues to fall, some winter sports enthusiast may be saying it the “it’s the most wonderful ski-son of all” but with great powder comes great responsibility! Please slow down and proceed carefully on snow packed and icy roads.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

January 3-7, 2022

Construction is moving forward on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of January 3.

Preparations for beam replacement on the east side of the bridge continue this week. Beam replacement is material-dependent and will begin as soon as materials become available. Beams are anticipated for arrival by mid-January. Installation of the bridge deck will begin once beam replacement is complete.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 5. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

December 27-31, 2021

The holidays have me feeling extra Santa-mental, so I’m bringing you a special holiday edition of the Higgins Avenue Bridge Rehabilitation update. Hold on for deer life.

Work will pause December 24 for the Christmas holiday and resume on Monday, December 27. Work will pause again December 31 for the New Year holiday.

You may have been stringing lights this month while bridge crews have been preparing for installation of bridge stringers (steel beams).

But wait, there's myrrh.

While you have been decking your halls, crews continue preparations for decking the bridge. Bridge deck installation will take place following the beam replacement. Beam replacement is material-dependent and will begin as soon as materials become available. Have snow fear, the beams are anticipated to arrive by mid-January.

Yule be happy to know that the project remains on schedule, and we will all be enjoying a spruced-up bridge next summer, fir sure!

A 21-ton weight restriction remains in place. All vehicles (and sleighs) weighing more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. No one wants to feel Claustrophobic! Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 5. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

December 20-24, 2021

Construction continues on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of December 20.

Preparations for beam replacement and deck installation on the east side of the bridge continue this week. Beam replacement is material-dependent and will begin as soon as materials become available.

Work on the bridge will pause Friday, December 24 for the Christmas holiday. Construction activities will resume Monday, December 27 - 30. Work will pause again December 31 for the New Year holiday.

A 21-ton weight restriction remains in place. All vehicles weighing more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Winter weather is beginning to appear and can affect road conditions. The Montana Department of Transportation has several safety tips for winter driving.

  • Allow extra time to get to your destination.
  • Clean off your car. Keep windows, mirrors, and lights clear of snow and ice.
  • Turn off cruise control.
  • Always buckle up.
  • Slow down in poor visibility conditions.
  • Maintain a safe distance behind other vehicles.
  • Expect ice on bridges and in shady spots.
  • Don't pass snowplows unless it's absolutely necessary.
  • Prepare your vehicle for winter driving at the start of the season.
  • Check to ensure all four tires are in good condition.
  • Don't wait until the last minute to get snow tires mounted.
  • Keep an emergency travel kit in your car.

For more information on preparing for winter travel, please visit https://www.mdt.mt.gov/visionzero/people/winterdriving.aspx

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 5. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

December 13-17, 2021

Construction continues on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of December 13.

Preparations for beam replacement and deck installation on the east side of the bridge continue this week. Beam replacement is material-dependent and will begin as soon as materials become available.

A 21-ton weight restriction remains in place. All vehicles weighing more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Winter weather is beginning to appear and can affect road conditions. The Montana Department of Transportation has several safety tips for winter driving.

  • Allow extra time to get to your destination.
  • Clean off your car. Keep windows, mirrors, and lights clear of snow and ice.
  • Turn off cruise control.
  • Always buckle up.
  • Slow down in poor visibility conditions.
  • Maintain a safe distance behind other vehicles.
  • Expect ice on bridges and in shady spots.
  • Don't pass snowplows unless it's absolutely necessary.
  • Prepare your vehicle for winter driving at the start of the season.
  • Check to ensure all four tires are in good condition.
  • Don't wait until the last minute to get snow tires mounted.
  • Keep an emergency travel kit in your car.

For more information on preparing for winter travel, please visit https://www.mdt.mt.gov/visionzero/people/winterdriving.aspx

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 5. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

December 6-10, 2021

Happy December!

Construction continues on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of December 6.

Deck drain installation is wrapping up and crews will begin preparations for steel bridge beam replacement. These preparations will continue for three to four weeks. Beam replacement is material-dependent and will begin as soon as materials become available.

A 21-ton weight restriction remains in place. All vehicles weighing more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 5. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

November 29 – December 3, 2021

Construction is progressing on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of November 29.

Crews will be addressing the metal deck tie-up locations in preparation for painting in the spring. Deck drain installation and fiberglass reinforced polymer wrapping will continue throughout the week as well.

A 21-ton weight restriction remains in place. All vehicles weighing more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 1. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

November 22-26, 2021

Construction is progressing on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of November 22.

Crews will be finishing the curb and drainage work on the east side of the bridge this week, and general construction odds and ends will be addressed throughout the work zone.

Construction will pause November 25 and 26 for the Thanksgiving holiday. Crews will be back on site Monday, November 29.

A 21-ton weight restriction remains in place. All vehicles weighing more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 1. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

November 15-19, 2021

Construction is progressing on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of November 15.

Sidewalk work is moving forward on both ends of the bridge.

A fiber-reinforced polymer wrap is being added to bridge supports to increase strength and durability and repair work is continuing underneath the bridge.

A 21-ton weight restriction remains in place. All vehicles weighing more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 1. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

November 8-12, 2021

Construction is progressing on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of November 8.

Sidewalk work continues on both ends of the bridge. Pedestrian rail installation is ongoing as well. Crews are performing general construction activities and site cleanup in multiple areas.

A 21-ton weight restriction remains in place. All vehicles weighing more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 1. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

November 1-5, 2021

Construction is progressing on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of November 1.

Crews are working on the east sidewalks of Beartracks Bridge. Concrete for these sidewalks will be poured on the south end of the bridge with minor concrete finish work taking place underneath. Sections of the bridge deck will be checked for smoothness. General site cleanup is also taking place throughout the work zone.

A process called straight edging will be conducted on the bridge deck. The surface of the deck will be checked for smoothness with a long straight edge. Any high spots will be ground down until the surface is flat.

Crews will also take care of some general site cleanup throughout the work zone.

A 21-ton weight restriction remains in place. All vehicles weighing more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 3. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

October 25-29, 2021

Construction is progressing on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of October 22.

Concrete work continues on the east side of the bridge. Crews will be pouring sections of sidewalk and the wall extension that will support the pedestrian walkway.

Construction will take place under the bridge and Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) wrap will be applied to increase column strength and durability.

A 21-ton weight restriction remains in place. All vehicles weighing more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 3. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

October 18-22, 2021

Construction is progressing on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of October 18.

Paving operations on the north and south ends of the bridge will occur Tuesday, October 19. Flaggers will be in place at both ends of the bridge, and drivers should prepare for potential stops and minimal delays while paving is completed. This work is weather-dependent.

Deck drains are being installed on the east side of the bridge. These drains will collect water and convey it away from the bridge deck to prevent pooling on the surface of the bridge.

The temporary covered walkways at the lower entrance of the Wilma and under the bridge have been removed and crews are conducting general site clean-up. Pedestrian access remains open in these locations. Work under the south end of the bridge will continue this week.

A 21-ton weight restriction remains in place. All vehicles weighing more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 3. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

October 11-15, 2021

Concrete work is progressing on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula the week of October 11.

Crews will be preparing this week to pour concrete for the sidewalks on the east side of the bridge. Forms will be removed from areas where the concrete has already been poured and cured and general site cleanup will take place.

Paving operations on the north and south ends of the bridge may occur toward the end of the week. Flaggers will be in place at both ends of the bridge, and drivers should prepare for potential stops and minimal delays while paving is completed. This work is dependent upon material availability and weather.

A 21-ton weight restriction remains in place. All vehicles more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 3. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

October 4-7, 2021

Concrete work is progressing on Beartracks Bridge in Missoula.

An ultra high-performance concrete (UHPC) will be poured on the east side of the bridge during the latter part of the week of October 4. This specialized concrete develops to a strength of 25,000 pounds per square inch (psi) which is more than six times stronger than the 4,000 psi of standard concrete.

The UHPC requires stable conditions to set correctly. Vibrations from large or fast-moving vehicles while the concrete is hardening could cause the concrete to crack or set improperly. With that in mind, a five-ton weight restriction and a 15-mph speed limit will be in place on the bridge beginning Wednesday, October 6 and continuing through Sunday, October 10.

The five-ton weight limit is significantly lower than the previous restrictions. Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with your vehicle's weight. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) can often be found on the door jamb or in the owner's manual. Most standard passenger vehicles weigh less than five tons and will qualify to drive on the bridge during the temporary restrictions.

Message boards will be in place at both ends of the bridge to inform drivers of the restrictions and indicate alternate routes.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

September 27 - October 1, 2021

Concrete work is progressing on the east side of Beartracks Bridge in Missoula. Crews formed some curb and supports for the hand and guardrails last week; this work will continue into the week of September 27.

Installation of expansion joints and removal of deck forms will also take place. Expansion joints prevent the concrete from cracking, allowing it to expand and contract as weather conditions change.

The Beartracks Bridge temporary weight limit has been increased to 21 tons. The new weight restriction will remain in place until repairs to structural supports are completed. MDT is working with Sletten Construction to determine an appropriate repair schedule. All vehicles more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

September 20-24, 2021

Concrete work is progressing on the east side of Beartracks Bridge.

Crews will be forming curb and moment slab the week of September 20. Moment slab is the section of concrete that will support the bridge guardrail. Expansion joint installation will continue this week as well. Expansion joints prevent the concrete from cracking as it allows room for the concrete to expand and contract as weather conditions change.

The Beartracks Bridge temporary weight limit has been increased to 21 tons. The new weight restriction will remain in place until repairs to structural supports are completed. MDT is working with Sletten Construction to determine an appropriate repair schedule. All vehicles more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

September 13-17, 2021

Concrete work continues on the east side of Beartracks Bridge.

Crews will pour several concrete bridge sections on Tuesday, September 14. The pour is scheduled to begin at 3:30 a.m. Minimal noise impacts are possible while this work is completed. No traffic impacts are anticipated.

Concrete curbing will also be poured this week. Once the curb work is complete, crews will begin handrail installation on the east side shared-use path.

The Beartracks Bridge temporary weight limit has been increased to 21 tons. The new weight restriction will remain in place until repairs to structural supports are completed. MDT is working with Sletten Construction to determine an appropriate repair schedule. All vehicles more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

September 6-10, 2021

Concrete work is moving forward on the east side of Beartracks Bridge.

Work will pause on Monday, September 6, in observance of the Labor Day holiday.

Crews will be pouring additional sections of the bridge deck on Wednesday, September 8. The pour is scheduled to begin at 3:00 a.m. and completed by 10:00 a.m. A brief, early-morning closure of Carousel Drive may be necessary while this work is completed.

Expansion joints are being added as the concrete work progresses. Concrete expands and contracts under a variety of conditions. Expansion joints allow the concrete space to move without cracking.

The Beartracks Bridge temporary weight limit has been increased to 21 tons. The new weight restriction will remain in place until repairs to structural supports are completed. MDT is working with Sletten Construction to determine an appropriate repair schedule. All vehicles more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/88457519696?pwd=VDJCMlJ1VlVyM0cvWWgzR0pMT2xMZz09 [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Passcode: 679436

Dial by Telephone:

+1 206 337 9723 or +1 213 338 8477 or +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 884 5751 9696

Passcode: 679436

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/keGva5n2sq [mt-gov.zoom.us]

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

August 30 – September 3, 2021

Construction continues on the east side of Beartracks Bridge.

Rebar work is wrapping up and crews will be pouring concrete bridge deck sections throughout the next couple of weeks. Minimal noise impacts may be expected while the concrete work is completed. No traffic impacts are anticipated.

The Beartracks Bridge temporary weight limit has been increased to 21 tons. The new weight restriction will remain in place until repairs to structural supports are completed. MDT is working with Sletten Construction to determine an appropriate repair schedule. All vehicles more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes. Digital message boards have been replaced with hard-sided road signs to provide advance warning of the weight limit and indicate alternate routes for overweight vehicles.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 1. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

August 23-27, 2021

The temporary weight limit on Beartracks Bridge has been increased to 21 tons. Extensive analysis of several bridge components provided the information necessary for MDT to feel confident in raising the load rating. The new weight restriction will remain in place until repairs to structural supports are completed. MDT is working with Sletten Construction to determine an appropriate repair schedule.

The increased weight limit will allow Mountain Line to resume routes across the bridge and will open traffic to other vehicles that previously exceeded the ten-ton weight restriction. All vehicles weighing more than 21 tons will need to take alternate routes.

Construction is progressing on the east side of the bridge. Crews continue to set forms in preparation for pouring the concrete bridge deck. Concrete will be poured on a south section of the bridge toward the end of the week. The pour is scheduled to begin at 4:00 a.m. and will take approximately 5 hours. No traffic impacts are anticipated. Minimal noise impacts may be expected.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 1. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

August 16-20, 2021

Crews will be pouring concrete this week on two segments of the east side of Beartracks Bridge. Concrete pours will take place on Thursday, August 19 in the early morning hours. Minor noise impacts are possible while this work is completed. No major traffic impacts are anticipated.

Setting of additional concrete deck forms and rebar placement and tying will continue throughout the week.

A temporary weight restriction remains for travel on the west side of the bridge. All vehicles weighing more than ten tons must take alternate routes. Message boards are in place to indicate detour routes. The bridge remains safe and is open to pedestrians, cyclists, and any vehicles weighing less than ten tons.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 1. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

August 9-13, 2021

Crews are setting forms on the east side of Beartracks Bridge in preparation for pouring the concrete bridge deck. Steel beams will be installed on Wednesday, August 11. Large equipment necessary to set the beams may cause some pedestrian delays on Ron’s River Trail while this work is completed.

Rebar is being set and tied and work on the substructure will also take place in the coming week. The substructure is the base of the bridge that supports the road above.

A temporary weight restriction remains for travel on the west side of the bridge. All vehicles weighing more than ten tons must take alternate routes. Message boards are in place to indicate detour routes. The bridge remains safe and is open to pedestrians, cyclists, and any vehicles weighing less than ten tons.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 11. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

August 2-6, 2021

Progress on the east side of Beartracks Bridge continues with the setting of deck forms. These forms are being placed in preparation for pouring the concrete bridge deck. The bridge deck is the surface of the bridge, or the structural element that supports the roadway.

During the demolition of the east side of the old bridge deck, shallow cuts were inadvertently made into the existing girders. Bridge girders are long steel beams that support the bridge deck. Repairs were made to the cuts, however, inspections indicated that the repairs may not be appropriate for this bridge. The project team has requested additional inspections of several aspects of the bridge to assess the need for repairs. Fickett Structural Solutions has been conducting non-destructive ultrasound inspections to evaluate the bridge girders. Inspections of all aspects of the bridge are wrapping up and analysis of the findings will begin. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

A temporary weight restriction remains for travel on the west side of the bridge. All vehicles weighing more than ten tons must take alternate routes. Message boards are in place to indicate detour routes. The bridge remains safe and is open to pedestrians, cyclists, and any vehicles weighing less than ten tons.

In the heat of the day, the surface of the bridge walkway can become extremely hot. A white surface section has been painted on the shared-use path. This section has consistently remained much cooler than the rest of the walkway and is the best place for animals and bare feet. This temporary solution is in place while the project team explores a more permanent solution. Pedestrians are encouraged to continue to be careful when crossing the bridge on hot sunny days.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 11. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

July 26-30, 2021

Demolition continues on the last few sections of the bridge’s east side, nearest to Carousel Drive. Forms are being placed in preparation for pouring the new concrete bridge deck.

A temporary weight restriction remains for travel on the west side of the bridge. All vehicles weighing more than ten tons must take alternate routes. Message boards are in place to indicate detour routes. This is being done in an overabundance of caution while further analysis is conducted. The bridge remains safe and is open to pedestrians, cyclists, and any vehicles weighing less than ten tons.

The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is often posted on the vehicle (such as the door jamb) or listed in the owner manual. For trailers, the GVW might be shown on a plaque near the tongue. The posted GVW limit of ten tons includes the combined weight of the vehicle and any trailers it may be hauling. Most standard passenger vehicles fall well below the ten-ton weight limit.

In the heat of the day, the surface of the bridge walkway can become extremely hot. A white surface section has been painted on the shared-use path. This section has consistently remained much cooler than the rest of the walkway and is the best place for animals and bare feet. This temporary solution is in place while the project team explores a more permanent solution. Pedestrians are encouraged to continue to be careful when crossing the bridge on hot sunny days.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While Higgins Avenue Bridge and some areas of Caras Park are under construction, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 11. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

MDT and Sletten remain committed to completing the bridge construction as scheduled.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

July 19-23, 2021

Crews are continuing with the last of the demolition of the existing bridge deck and beams are being placed.

Jacking is also taking place on the east side of the bridge. Jacking involves lifting the bridge superstructure. A bridge superstructure supports the surface of the bridge. Once the superstructure is lifted, the bearing plates that hold up the bridge will be replaced, and the superstructure will be lowered back into place.

A temporary weight restriction is in place on the west side of the bridge. All vehicles weighing more than ten tons must take alternate routes. Message boards are in place to indicate detour routes. This is being done in an overabundance of caution while inspections are being conducted. The bridge remains safe and is open to pedestrians, cyclists, and any vehicle weighing less than ten tons.

Most standard passenger vehicles do not come close to the ten-ton weight limit. The graphic below illustrates the average weight of several vehicle types. As a reminder, two thousand pounds equals one ton.

Weights by car type

The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is often posted on the vehicle (such as the door jam) or listed in the owner manual. For trailers, the GVW might be shown on a plaque near the tongue. The posted GVW limit of 10 tons includes the combined weight of the vehicle and any trailers it may be hauling.

In the heat of the day, the surface of the bridge walkway can become extremely hot. A white surface section has been painted on the shared-use path. This section has consistently remained much cooler than the rest of the walkway and is the best place for animals and bare feet. Pedestrians are encouraged to continue to be careful when crossing the bridge on hot sunny days.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 11. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

MDT and Sletten remain committed to completing the bridge construction as scheduled.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

July 12-16, 2021

Demolition work on the east side of Beartracks bridge is nearly complete. Crews will be cleaning up rubble below the bridge for the next couple of weeks.

Beams are being set on the south end of the bridge. This work will be ongoing for the next couple of weeks as crews continue northward.

Hand chipping is taking place as a final step in the removal of the old bridge deck. Demolition of the existing bridge deck was completed with large machinery. Once the majority of the bridge deck is removed, crews use smaller tools to remove the small amount of remaining concrete from the top of the beams.

In the heat of the day, the surface of the bridge walkway can become extremely hot. A white surface section has been painted on the shared-use path. This section has consistently remained much cooler than the rest of the walkway and is the best place for animals and bare feet. Pedestrians are encouraged to continue to be careful when crossing the bridge on hot sunny days.

Pedestrian detour access points at 4th Street and Front Street will remain in place while demolition is conducted on the east side. Two of the temporary pedestrian covers have been removed. The cover nearest to Carousel Drive will remain in place until demolition is completed on the bridge overhead. Please share the road and travel safely.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 11. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

July 5-9, 2021

Progress is being made on the Higgins Ave Bridge project. Demolition of the east side of Beartracks Bridge continues. Crews continue with setting beams in several bridge sections in preparation for decking.

To ensure that traffic moves efficiently and does not have to navigate workers over the holiday weekend, no workers will be on site on Friday, July 2 and Monday, July 5. From our crew to yours, have a safe and enjoyable July 4th weekend.

To ensure that traffic moves efficiently and does not have to navigate workers over the holiday weekend, no workers will be on-site on Friday, July 2, and Monday, July 5. From our crew to yours, have a safe and enjoyable July 4th weekend.

In the heat of the day, the surface of the bridge walkway can become extremely hot. A white surface section has been painted on the shared-use path. This section has consistently remained much cooler than the rest of the walkway and is the best place for animals and bare feet. Pedestrians are encouraged to continue to be careful when crossing the bridge on hot sunny days.

Pedestrian detour access points at 4th Street and Front Street will remain in place while demolition is conducted on the east side. Two of the temporary pedestrian covers have been removed. The cover nearest to Carousel Drive will remain in place until demolition is completed on the bridge overhead. Please share the road and travel safely.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 7. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please email Kristine at kristineXYZbigskypublicrelationsABCcom. Our project hotline is also open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 406-207-4484. We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

June 28 - July 2, 2021

Progress is being made on the Higgins Ave Bridge project. Demolition of the east side of Beartracks Bridge continues. Crews are focusing on bridge demoing north of the river near Caras Park. Travelers on Carousel Drive may see a single day closure late in the week of June 28 or early the week of July 5. More information will be provided in the coming days on the exact timing of that closure.

To ensure that traffic moves efficiently and does not have to navigate workers over the holiday weekend, no workers will be on site on Friday, July 2 and Monday, July 5. From our crew to yours, have a safe and enjoyable July 4th weekend.

In the heat of the day the surface of the bridge walkway can become extremely hot. MDT is working towards a solution to this concern. A white pathway surface may result in reduced temperatures on the fiber reinforced polymer panels and will be tested. In the meantime, be aware, and take precautions to protect your feet and the feet of your children and animals before crossing the bridge on hot, sunny days.

Pedestrian detour access points at 4th Street and Front Street will remain in place while demolition is conducted on the east side. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. Cyclists are reminded to dismount when passing through the protected walkways under the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 7. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

June 21-25, 2021

Progress is being made on the Higgins Ave Bridge project.

Demolition of the east side of Beartracks Bridge continues. Crews have completed demolition of the sections directly over the river. Demolition will begin later this week on the north end near Caras Park. Beams will be set on the south section this week as well.

As a reminder, in the heat of the day the surface of the bridge walkway can become extremely hot. Please take precautions to protect your feet and the feet of your children and animals before crossing the bridge on hot, sunny days.

Pedestrian detour access points at 4th Street and Front Street will remain in place while demolition is conducted on the east side. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. Cyclists are reminded to dismount when passing through the protected walkways under the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 7. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

June 14-18, 2021

Progress is being made on the Higgins Ave Bridge project.

Demolition continues on the east half of the bridge while traffic continues to flow on a single lane in each direction on the west half. Crews are making repairs underneath the bridge and will begin pouring concrete for the extensions this week as well.

As a reminder, in the heat of the day the surface of the bridge walkway can become extremely hot. Please take precautions to protect your feet and the feet of your children and animals before crossing the bridge on hot, sunny days.

Pedestrian detour access points at 4th Street and Front Street will remain in place while demolition is conducted on the east side. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. Cyclists are reminded to dismount when passing through the protected walkways under the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 7. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

June 7-11, 2021

Construction is moving forward on the Higgins Ave Bridge project this week.

Demolition continues on the east side of the bridge. Crews will be conducting demolition on the south end of the bridge in preparation for beam installation to begin later this month.

Traffic is moving on the west side of the bridge and the new 13-foot wide shared-use path is open. Cyclists are encouraged to continue to ride in the lane of traffic across the bridge while the east side of the bridge is completed. Cyclists may ride on the shared-use path but will need to slow down and enter the path from the sidewalk in front of the Wilma when traveling south across the bridge. Cyclists and pedestrians will be traveling in both directions on the path until the east side of the bridge opens. All users are encouraged to be courteous and share the space safely.

Pedestrian detour access points at 4th Street and Front Street will remain in place while demolition is conducted on the east side. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. Cyclists are reminded to dismount when passing through the protected walkways under the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

As I am sure you may have heard, the Montana Transportation Commission has approved the naming of the bridge Beartracks Bridge as a tribute to the Salish-Bitterroot people. This is something that is important to the Montana Department of Transportation. To minimize confusion, the use of Higgins Ave Bridge will still be used in reference to the project, however, you will begin to see some references to the name Beartracks Bridge as this project moves forward. An official naming ceremony will take place when construction on the bridge is completed next year.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 7. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

May 31 - June 4, 2021

Construction is moving forward on the Higgins Ave Bridge project this week.

The west side of the bridge has been open to traffic and cyclists, pedestrians, skateboarders, joggers, runners, speed walkers, and stroller passengers are all enjoying the new 13-foot wide shared-use path.

Construction on the east side will be very similar to the process used on the west side. Crews have begun demolition of the east side of the bridge and will be hauling out materials this week.

Pedestrian detour access points at 4th Street and Front Street will remain in place while demolition is conducted on the east side. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. Cyclist are reminded to dismount when passing through the protected walkways under the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Work at the intersection of 3rd Street and Higgins Avenue is wrapped up as well. Third Street is open to traffic and the community can now enjoy the new pedestrian plaza.

Construction will pause on Monday, May 31 in honor of the Memorial Day holiday. Work will resume on Tuesday, June 1.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 2.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

May 24-28, 2021

Construction on the west side of the bridge is complete and traffic will be swapped to the newly finished west side of the bridge over the weekend. Once traffic is swapped, the new shared-use walkway will be open to pedestrians and cyclists.

Pedestrian detour access points at 4th Street and Front Street will remain in place while demolition is conducted on the east side. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. Cyclist are reminded to dismount when passing through the protected walkways under the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Work at the intersection of 3rd Street and Higgins Avenue is wrapping up as well. Third Street will reopen to traffic by mid-week.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 2.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

May 17-21, 2021

Exciting things are happening on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project this week.

The last of the paving work at the Higgins Avenue and Third Street intersection will be completed early in the week. Finishing touches are also being added to the west side of the bridge. Crews will be completing the pedestrian rail and installing the stairs. Striping and other final preparations for the opening of the west side of the bridge will take place this week.

Pedestrian detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Cyclist are reminded to dismount when passing through the protected walkways under the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 2.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

May 10-14, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of May 10.

Paving will take place at both ends of the bridge this week. Paving is anticipated to begin on Tuesday, May 11 and be completed on Wednesday, May 12. This work is weather dependent. Drivers can expect flaggers at the project site and minor delays while the paving is completed. Third Street remains closed near the Boone and Crockett Club and traffic is being detoured to Myrtle Street.

Crews will continue concrete work in several areas. Handrails are being installed and preparations for the installation of stairs are underway. Some landscaping work will begin under the bridge this week as well. Drivers are encouraged to travel carefully through the project site and watch for changing lane configurations.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 2.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

May 3-7, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of May 3.

Crews are installing fiberglass panels and railing for the walkway on the west side of the bridge. When completed, the bridge will boast a much wider shared-use path for pedestrians, runners, cyclists and more. Access to the new and improved shared-use lane on the west side of the bridge will open in early-June when traffic transitions and construction begins on the east side.

Pedestrian detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Construction at the intersection of Higgins Avenue and Third Street is progressing. Milling and paving operation are anticipated for this week. Third Street remains closed near the entrance of the Boone and Crockett Club. Pedestrian and delivery access will remain open to all businesses during business hours. A detour for all modes of travel has been established on Myrtle Street.

The spring and summer months are a a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 5.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

April 26-30, 2021

Exciting progress is being made on the Higgins Avenue Bridge project the week of April 26. Crews are continuing concrete work and painting under the bridge. Installation of fiberglass reinforced panels is taking place as well. These panels are being added to the walkway to provide an additional measure of stability and durability. The staircase foundation has been built and a pedestrian rail is also being installed. Stairs should be installed in mid-May.

Pedestrian detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Pedestrian detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Curb and gutter and gravel will be installed this week at the plaza. Please share the road and travel safely. Crews are still on target to have Third Street paved in early May.

Third Street is closed near the entrance of the Boone and Crockett Club while crews make improvements to the intersection of Higgins Ave and Third Street. Pedestrian and delivery access will remain open to all businesses during business hours. A detour for all modes of travel has been established on Myrtle Street.

The spring and summer months are a a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 5.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

April 19-23, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of April 19.

Concrete work continues and painting under the bridge has begun. Installation of fiberglass reinforced panels is taking place as well. These panels are being added to the walkway to provide an additional measure of stability and durability.

Pedestrian detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Third Street is closed near the entrance of the Boone and Crockett Club while crews make improvements to the intersection of Higgins Ave and Third Street. Pedestrian and delivery access will remain open to all businesses during business hours. A detour for all modes of travel has been established on Myrtle Street.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 5.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

April 12-16, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of April 12.

Expansion joints are being added on additional sections of the bridge this week. Paint work has also begun. Crews are prepping the bridge and painting could begin this week.

The footings for the stairs will be drilled this week. Installation of the stairs is anticipated for May, in time for the west side of the bridge and the shared use path to open in early June.

Third Street is closed near the entrance of the Boon and Crocket Club while crews make improvements to the intersection of Higgins Ave and Third Street. Pedestrian and delivery access will remain open to all businesses during business hours. A detour for all modes of travel has been established on Myrtle Street.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

The spring and summer months are a wonderful time to explore Downtown Missoula and many downtown events will be starting up again this year. While construction is happening on the Higgins Ave Bridge and in some areas of Caras Park, eventgoers, trail users, and carousel riders are encouraged to utilize parking structures and walk to various downtown activities.

Parking structures are located just a short walk from many events, trails, and activities. Utilizing bus services and biking are also great ways to get around downtown and avoid parking limitations and congestion. If you have questions about parking structure locations, fees, or other general parking inquiries, please contact the Missoula Parking Commission at 406-552-6250.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 2.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

April 5-9, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of April 5.

Concrete work continues as crews turn their focus to expansion joints. Expansion joints are used to separate sections of concrete to allow for expansion and contraction of the slabs after they have cured. These joints will aid in the prevention of cracking and provide an extra measure of stability to the concrete.

Crews are continuing with the installation of cantilever sidewalk and painting of the existing superstructure steel. Handrail installation will also take place this week, moving the project one step closer to the completion of the bicycle and pedestrian path on the west side of the bridge.

Two lanes of traffic remain open on the east side of the bridge. Traffic will transition to the west side later this spring. Drivers are encouraged to travel carefully and share the road with cyclists as they travel across the bridge.

Construction on the intersection of 3rd Street and Higgins Ave has begun. 3rd Street will be closed near the entrance of the Boon and Crocket Club. Pedestrian and delivery access will remain open to all businesses during business hours. A detour for all modes of travel will be established on Myrtle Street.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 7.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

March 29-April 2, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of March 29.

Crews are continuing to pour the concrete sections of the bridge deck and allowing sections to cure, the chemical process needed for concrete to properly harden. On fully-cured sections of the bridge, crews are starting to remove the framework that they put into place prior to concrete pouring. This framework ensured that concrete was poured accurately and formed the molds that it should.

Crews are also installing and painting cantilever arms. These structural beams hold up the cantilever slab, which is similar to a bridge deck and will hold future bicycle and pedestrian travelers. The cantilever, however, hangs suspended by horizontal beams, whereas a bridge is supported by both horizontal and vertical beams.

Two lanes of traffic remain open on the east side of the bridge. Traffic will transition to the west side later this spring. Drivers are encouraged to travel carefully and share the road with cyclists as they travel across the bridge.

Construction on the intersection of 3rd Street and Higgins Ave remains on track to begin April 1. Drivers and pedestrians can expect lane closures and temporary sidewalk displacement while this work is completed. Pedestrian and delivery access will be maintained to all businesses during business hours. More information will be provided early next week on exactly what traffic will look like. Thank you for your patience.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 7. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411. More information on the project can also be found on the MDT's project website: https://www.mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/higginsbridge/.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

March 22-26, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of March 22.

Crews continue with concrete work for the bridge deck and curbing on the west side of the bridge. Two lanes of traffic are open on the east side of the bridge. Traffic will transition to the west side later this spring. Drivers are encouraged to travel carefully and share the road with cyclists as they travel across the bridge.

Construction on the intersection of 3rd Street and Higgins Ave will begin April 1. Drivers and pedestrians can expect lane closures and temporary sidewalk displacement while this work is completed. Pedestrian and delivery access will be maintained to all businesses during business hours. More information on this work will be provided in the coming weeks.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 7.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

March 15-19, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of March 15.

Night work on the bridge deck will take place Tuesday, March 16 beginning at 8 pm. Crews will be pouring concrete on sections of the bridge directly over the river. Drivers can expect single-lane closures while the work is completed. This work is weather dependent.

Day work will continue as preparations are made for a drainage system and additional concrete pours.

Construction on the intersection of 3rd Street and Higgins Ave will begin April 1. Drivers and pedestrians can expect lane closures and temporary sidewalk displacement while this work is completed. Access to business will remain open during construction. More information on this work will be provided in the coming weeks.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 7.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

March 8-12, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of March 8.

Night work on the bridge deck will take place mid-week. Crews will be working on the sections of the bridge directly over the river. The night work will begin at 8 pm and is anticipated for a single night this week and one next week. Work on some sections of the bridge will continue during daytime hours.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 10.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

The Department of Transportation will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this Higgins Public Q & A meeting or need an alternative accessible format of this notice. If you require an accommodation, contact the Department of Transportation no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to advise us of the nature of the accommodation that you need. Please contact Matt Maze, Office of Civil Rights, P.O. Box 201001, Helena, Montana 59620; telephone (406) 444-5416; Montana Relay 711; facsimile (406) 444-7243; or e-mail to mmazeXYZmtABCgov.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

March 1-5, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of March 1.

Crews are finishing the decking and laying rebar. Concrete work continues as the new deck on the west side of the bridge begins to take shape. Traffic continues to flow on two lanes on the east side. Drivers are encouraged to share the road, be mindful of cyclists and watch for icy road conditions.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S’s of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 10.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

February 22-26, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of February 22.

The decking is complete on the west side of the bridge. Crews will transition to pouring concrete this week. Concrete will be poured section by section down the length of the bridge. It is anticipated that the west side of the bridge will be complete this spring. Once completed, traffic will transition to the west side and crews will begin deck replacement on the east side of the bridge.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 10.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

February 15-19, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of February 15.

The bridge deck is taking shape as crews continue to set concrete forms and install rebar.

Winter weather conditions have set in and crews are making adjustments to ensure construction can continue. Winter weather can cause changing road conditions as well. Drivers are encouraged to allow for additional travel time and to take extra precautions when traveling through the work zone.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 10.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

February 8-12, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of February 8.

Installation of deck forms and rebar work on the west side of the bridge continues this week. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 10.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

February 1-5, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of February 1.

Deck rebar work is beginning this week. Crews are also installing deck forms in preparation to pour concrete. Concrete girders will be set mid-week. A closure of Carousel Drive will be necessary while concrete beams are installed. In addition to Carousel Drive, access to the lower entrance of the Wilma building will be closed as well. This will be a single-day closure.

One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 3.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

January 25-30, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project for the week of January 25.

Demolition of the bridge deck continues this week, and crews will be setting large beams over Ron’s River Trail and placing reinforcing steel for the bridge deck. A single-day closure of the trail will be necessary mid-week. Detours to the pedestrian underpass on Carousel Drive will be available.

One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 3.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

January 18-22, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project.

Crews are continuing with demolition of the bridge deck on the west side of the bridge. One lane of traffic in each direction remains open on the east side. Drivers are encouraged to proceed carefully and be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists. Work will pause on Monday, January 18 in observance of the Martin Luther King holiday and will resume again on Tuesday, January 19.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 3.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or sending an email to . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

January 11-15, 2021

Construction is progressing on the Higgins Ave Bridge project.

Demolition of the bridge deck on the west side of the bridge continues this week and crews will be removing girders over Ron’s River Trail. This process will require a single-day closure of the Ron’s trail mid-week. Detours to the pedestrian underpass on Carousel Drive will be available.

One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 3.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or by emailing Kristine Fife at . Kristine will be taking over the public involvement on this project in the new year. You can expect ongoing updates coming from her email address listed above. Big Sky Public Relations is here to help address your concerns during this project.

January 4-8, 2021

On behalf of the Montana Department of Transportation and the entire Higgins Avenue Bridge team, we wish everyone a very happy 2021!

Sletten Construction will continue to remove the old bridge structure and placing plywood forms for new deck concrete. Crews are also installing large steel support beams on the south end of the bridge.

As equipment availability allows, there will be temporary, short-duration closures of Carousel Drive and access to the lower Wilma Building entrance. Crews anticipate this to take place on Wednesday. An additional update will be provided once details are confirmed.

Crews are currently working on the west side of the bridge, nearest to the Wilma. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 6.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have questions, please reach out by calling our project hotline at 406-207-4484 or by emailing Kristine Fife at . Kristine will be taking over the public involvement on this project in the new year. You can expect ongoing updates coming from her email address listed above. Big Sky Public Relations is here to help address your concerns during this project.

December 21-January 1, 2020

On behalf of the Montana Department of Transportation and the entire Higgins Avenue Bridge team, we wish everyone a joyous holiday season!

To give your family a break from construction, and to give our crews more time with theirs, work will only be performed on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday the weeks of December 21 and 28.

While active construction continues early in the week, Sletten Construction will be removing the old bridge structure. Crews are also installing large steel support beams on the south end of the bridge and installing a cantilever supports for the future sidewalk.

Crews are currently working on the west side of the bridge, nearest to the Wilma. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic before construction.

In early January, there will be work occurring directly adjacent to the lower level of the Wilma Building. More information and potential impacts will be shared as details are confirmed.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space, and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on January 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Our project hotline is open for questions between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call (406) 207-4484 to reach us. Text updates are also available. To register text HIGGINS to 41411.

December 14-18, 2020

Construction continues on the Higgins Avenue Bridge for the week of December 14-18.

Sletten Construction continues to remove the old bridge structure. Crews are also installing large steel support beams on the south end of the bridge and installing cantilever supports for the future sidewalk.

These beams are installed throughout the bridge and provide support for the deck, the surface that vehicles drive on. Crews are also installing cantilever supports for the future sidewalks.

Exciting news for residents: Carousel Drive is expected to open early in the week for authorized users! Please be prepared for changing traffic patterns.

Crews are currently working on the west side of the bridge, nearest to the Wilma. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction. For bicyclists and drivers, there are shared travel lanes over the bridge. Please share the road and travel safely.

Remember the three S's of work zone safety: speed, space and stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on January 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Our project hotline is open for questions between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call (406) 207-4484 to reach us. Text updates are also available. To register text HIGGINS to 41411.

December 7-11, 2020

Higgins Avenue Bridge construction keeps on truckin’ the week of December 7-11.

Sletten Construction continues removing old bridge deck sections and adding on to the bridge supports. New brackets are now being installed to hold the widened sidewalk over the river.

Carousel Drive will be closed for the foreseeable future until crews are able to complete storm drain work. Access to the Wilma building will be maintained.

Sharrows have also been painted within the travel lane. This indicates that both drivers and bicyclists are sharing one lane. Please be patient with one another and travel safely.

Crews are currently working on the west side of the bridge, nearest to the Wilma. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now shifting to hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on January 6. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Our project hotline is open for questions between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call (406) 207-4484 to reach us. Text updates are also available. To register text HIGGINS to 41411.

November 30-December 4, 2020

Sletten Construction will be continuing deck demolition and pouring concrete for bridge supports early in the week. Carousel Drive will be closed for the foreseeable future until crews are able to complete storm drain work. Access to the Wilma building will be maintained.

Crews are currently working on the west side of the bridge, nearest to the Wilma. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now shifting to hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on December 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Weekly project updates will continue to be provided every Friday throughout construction. If you have any questions, please call 406-207-4484 or email me at . We are here to help address your concerns during this project.

November 23-27, 2020

Happy Thanksgiving week on behalf of the Montana Department of Transportation. Higgins construction crews will not be working on Thursday or Friday this week.

Sletten Construction will be continuing deck demolition and pouring concrete for bridge supports early in the week. Carousel Drive will be closed for the foreseeable future until crews are able to complete storm drain work. Access to the Wilma building will be maintained.

Crews are currently working on the west side of the bridge, nearest to the Wilma. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now shifting to hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on December 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Our project hotline is open for questions between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 406-207-4484 to reach us. Text updates are also available. To register text HIGGINS to 41411.

November 16-20, 2020

Higgins Avenue Bridge construction continues the week of November 16. Sletten Construction crews will be drilling and moving large pieces of construction materials throughout the week. Travelers are encouraged to be mindful of large equipment in the area.

Please keep in mind that cyclists and drivers are sharing the travel lane.

Crews will not be working Thanksgiving or the day following.

Crews are currently working on the west side of the bridge, nearest to the Wilma. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now shifting to hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on December 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Text updates are available. To sign up, text HIGGINS to 41411.

Our project hotline is open for questions between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 406-207-4484 to reach us. Text updates are also available. To register text HIGGINS to 41411.

November 9-13, 2020

Higgins Avenue Bridge construction continues the week of November 9. Sletten Construction crews will be drilling and moving large pieces of construction materials throughout the week. At various points, early in the week, there may be limited access to the Wilma Building beneath the structure.

Crews are currently working on the west side of the bridge, nearest to the Wilma. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction.

The Montana Department of Transportation is now shifting to hosting monthly ZOOM meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m. The next meeting will be held on December 2. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Our project hotline is open for questions between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 406-207-4484 to reach us. Text updates are also available. To register text HIGGINS to 41411.

November 2-6, 2020

The Montana Department of Transportation wishes all a safe and enjoyable Halloween holiday. Last week’s snow pushed the schedule slightly, but Sletten Construction will begin bridge drilling. Travelers will see crews hauling materials in and out of the work site throughout the week.

Demolition work will slow on the south end of the existing bridge as crews have removed the existing bridge deck to replace it with a wider structure.

Traffic control adjustments are being made to ensure safe travel for cyclists, pedestrians and vehicles. All are reminded to share the roadway and be mindful that cyclists and vehicles are traveling in one lane together.

Crews are currently working on the west side of the bridge, nearest to the Wilma. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction.

The Montana Department of Transportation hosts weekly ZOOM meetings every Wednesday at 12 p.m. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Our project hotline is open for questions between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 406-207-4484 to reach us. Text updates are also available. To register text HIGGINS to 41411.

October 26-30, 2020

Higgins Avenue Bridge contractors will begin bridge drilling. Travelers will see crews hauling materials in and out of the work site throughout the week.

Demolition work will slow on the south end of the existing bridge as crews have removed the existing bridge deck to replace it with a wider structure.

Traffic control adjustments are being made to ensure safe travel for cyclists, pedestrians and vehicles. All are reminded to share the roadway and be mindful that cyclists and vehicles are traveling in one lane together.

Crews are currently working on the west side of the bridge, nearest to the Wilma. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction.

The Montana Department of Transportation hosts weekly ZOOM meetings every Wednesday at 12 p.m. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Our project hotline is open for questions between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 406-207-4484 to reach us. Text updates are also available. To register text HIGGINS to 41411.

October 19-23, 2020

Higgins Avenue Bridge contractors will be making preparations for drilling and starting to build a scaffolding system, or the temporary work bridge. Travelers are likely to see crews hauling materials in and out of the work site throughout the week.

Demolition work continues on the south end of the existing bridge. This allows crews to begin removing the existing bridge deck to replace it with a wider structure.

Traffic control adjustments are being made to ensure safe travel for cyclists, pedestrians and vehicles. All are reminded to share the roadway and be mindful that cyclists and vehicles are traveling in one lane together.

Crews are currently working on the west side of the bridge, nearest to the Wilma. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Pedestrian access will remain available to the public throughout the duration of construction. Detour access points are located on the east side of the bridge at 4th Street and Front Street. Drivers are encouraged to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists using Higgins Avenue Bridge throughout construction.

The Montana Department of Transportation hosts weekly ZOOM meetings every Wednesday at 12 p.m. Those who would like to join, please view the information below. Registration is not required to attend the meetings.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/j/96074441475?pwd=bXRxbi9qa2RFR1EvOTlyTFRtTmRIZz09

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: Higgins

Dial by Telephone

+1 646 558 8658 or +1 406 444 9999

Meeting ID: 960 7444 1475

Password: 1143298

https://mt-gov.zoom.us/u/acP3jzls8Q

Our project hotline is open for questions between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 406-207-4484 to reach us. Text updates are also available. To register text HIGGINS to 41411.

October 12-16, 2020

The Montana Department of Transportation and project contractor, Sletten Construction, have started Higgins Avenue Bridge construction.

Throughout the week of October 12, preliminary demolition work will begin on the south end of the existing bridge. This allows crews to begin removing the existing bridge deck to replace it with a wider structure later this year.

Pedestrian areas will be covered to provide safe trail usage near the bridge and will be in place throughout the duration of construction.

Crews are currently working on the west side of the bridge, nearest to the Wilma. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the eastern side of the bridge, which had carried northbound traffic prior to construction.

Various roadway and sidewalk improvements will be made at each end of the bridge. Along the west side of the bridge, new foundations will be installed to allow for a wider bridge deck, new shared-use paths, and a new stairway to Caras Park. The goal is to have both lanes of the bridge complete by the end of 2021 and to complete final paving, painting, striping, etc. in the spring of 2022.

Our project hotline is open for questions between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 406-207-4484 to reach us. Text updates are also available. To register text HIGGINS to 41411.

October 5-9, 2020

Construction will begin on the Higgins Avenue Bridge on Monday, October 5.

The Montana Department of Transportation and Sletten Construction began construction on the Higgins Avenue Bridge on October 5. Equipment will start to be moved in early this week, with traffic being reduced to a single lane in each direction by the end of the week.

Rehabilitation is essential to extend the life of the bridge. Crews will work to replace and widen the bridge deck. Construction will begin on the southbound lanes of the bridge. One lane of traffic in each direction will utilize the northbound lanes. This first phase of construction is anticipated to last through May 2021.

Various roadway and sidewalk improvements will be made at each end of the bridge. Along the west side of the bridge, new foundations will be installed to allow for a wider bridge deck, new shared-use paths, and a new stairway to Caras Park. The goal is to have both lanes of the bridge complete by the end of 2021 and to complete final paving, painting, striping, etc. in the spring of 2022.

Our project hotline is open for questions between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 406-207-4484 to reach us. Text updates are also available. To register text HIGGINS to 41411.