Bigfork Bridge Replacement Construction Begins in December

Construction is set to begin the first week of December to replace the closed Bridge Street Bridge and reconnect the town of Bigfork. The Bridge Street Bridge has been closed for almost a year. Now, construction is set to begin the first week of December to replace the bridge and reconnect the town of Bigfork.

While construction typically stops in the winter, the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) will move forward with the construction through this winter. The bridge is a vital connector for the town and is one of two ways in and out. Having the span closed is a safety concern.

*So it is harder in the winter, the colder temperatures, specifically with the with the concrete and some of the stuff that has to happen. But we recognize it was important to get it done and in a timely fashion, wanted to try to not be in the heart of Big Fork through the summer months,* said Montana Department of Transportation District Construction Engineer John Schmidt. Kiana Wilson/MTN News

MDT announced the start of the $4 million project during a Thursday, November 21 open house to discuss the project. Through federal, state, and county funding, the historic Bridge Street Bridge will be replaced with a similar style bridge with upgrades to the strength of the structure and the pedestrian path.

The Importance of Bridge Street Bridge to Bigfork

The Bridge Street Bridge is more than just a structure; it is a critical artery for the town of Bigfork. Connecting residents and visitors alike, the bridge’s closure has significantly impacted daily life and heightened safety concerns. The bridge is one of two primary entry and exit points for the town, making its functionality essential for both logistical and emergency scenarios.

With the bridge being out of commission for nearly a year, the urgency to replace it has been palpable within the community.

During a recent open house, the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) announced the commencement of a $4 million project aimed at replacing the bridge. This project, funded through a combination of federal, state, and county resources, aims to not only restore the bridge but also enhance its structural integrity and pedestrian accessibility.

The new bridge will feature a slightly longer truss, a single-lane configuration similar to the old one, and a wider sidewalk to accommodate foot traffic. These improvements are designed to ensure that the bridge meets modern safety standards while preserving its historical aesthetic.

Community Involvement and Historical Significance

The community of Bigfork has been actively involved in the planning and design process for the new bridge. Members of the Bigfork Art and Cultural Center have emphasized the historical importance of the bridge, noting that it has been a crucial part of the town’s infrastructure for many years.

*The bridges in this area are what allows the population to move, and early on, it was just real difficult to do that. We’ve seen with the closure of this current steel bridge, how much it affects the way things work. And I think everybody’s looking forward to having a bridge back there,* said Bigfork Art and Cultural Center volunteer Ed Gillenwater.

The MDT has worked closely with the community to ensure that the new bridge will retain the same aesthetic as the old one. This collaboration aims to preserve the unique charm and historical heritage of Bigfork, which is a significant draw for both residents and visitors.

*And I just think for people that come to Big Fork there, there’s a certain feeling about the town. It’s a very unique community, and you hate to lose that that sense of history and that heritage, so I think it’s just, it’s just part of who we are,* added Gillenwater.

Technical Challenges and Project Timeline

One of the most significant challenges facing the construction team is the winter weather. Cold temperatures can complicate various aspects of construction, particularly when it comes to working with concrete.

Despite these challenges, the MDT has decided to proceed with the project during the winter months to ensure that the bridge is completed in a timely manner. This decision was made to avoid disrupting the heart of Bigfork during the busy summer months when tourism peaks.

The project is set to begin in the first week of December and is anticipated to be completed by early July. During this period, the area will remain closed to both pedestrians and vehicles. The MDT has requested that people avoid the construction zone to ensure the safety of both the workers and the public.

The new bridge will not only restore a vital connection for the town but will also serve as a modernized version of its predecessor, blending historical significance with contemporary engineering standards.

Funding and Future Implications

The $4 million project is a significant investment in the town’s infrastructure. It reflects the importance of the Bridge Street Bridge to the community. The funding comes from a combination of federal, state, and county sources. This highlights the collaborative effort to restore this critical piece of infrastructure.

The new bridge will feature enhanced structural integrity and improved pedestrian pathways. This ensures that it meets modern safety standards while preserving its historical charm.

The successful completion of this project could serve as a model for other communities facing similar challenges. The blend of historical preservation with modern engineering techniques demonstrates a balanced approach to infrastructure development. As the town of Bigfork eagerly awaits the reopening of the Bridge Street Bridge, this project stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the importance of maintaining vital connections within a town.

For more detailed information on the Bridge Street Bridge project, you can visit the KPAX News article.