TF bridge project proposed, public comments sought

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) would like to announce and invite the public to comment on a proposal to preserve the bridge that crosses the Clark Fork River on Montana Highway 200 (MT 200), just west of Thompson Falls in Sanders County.

Proposed work entails a variety of bridge deck repairs and preservation treatments, including removal of the existing asphalt overlay, milling the existing deck surface, repairing the concrete deck, overlaying with new concrete surfacing, re-anchoring the existing steel expansion joints, and smoothing out both bridge end transitions. The purpose of the project is to extend the service life of the bridge deck in a cost-effective manner.

Construction is tentatively planned for 2026 depending on completion of design and availability of funds. No new right-of-way or utility relocations will be needed. Traffic will be maintained on the existing structure by single lane closures, controlled by temporary traffic lights or flaggers. Wide load restrictions will be in place.

Partnering with the community is an important part of properly planning for future projects. MDT welcomes the public to provide ideas and comments on the proposed project. Comments may be submitted online at mdt.mt.gov/contact/comment-form.aspx or in writing to Montana Department of Transportation, Missoula office, PO Box 7039, Missoula, MT 59807-7039. Please note that comments are for project UPN 10275000.

The public is encouraged to contact Missoula District Preconstruction Engineer Joel Boucher at 406-544-5802 or Project Design Engineer Scott Walter at 406-444-6252 with questions or comments about the project.