Proposed bridge replacement north of Jackson, Montana

JACKSON, Mont. — The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is announcing and inviting the public to comment on a proposal to replace the existing bridge on Big Swamp Creek Road crossing the Big Hole River, approximately 5 miles north of Jackson. The bridge is owned by Beaverhead County and was identified for replacement under the Off-System Bridge Prioritization Program.

Proposed work includes replacing the bridge and may include limited roadway work at the bridge ends. The existing structure is rated in poor condition and has a weight restriction of five tons. The purpose of the project is to construct a new bridge that meets current design standards. A construction date has not yet been determined.

In 2023, the Montana Legislature made a one-time allocation of $100 million to help local governments address the crisis of deteriorating off-system bridges, secondary highways, and urban routes. These funds have been used to repair or replace 150 county bridges, impacting 50 of Montana’s 56 counties. MDT is administering the replacement of 24 bridges that were identified in partnership with the Montana Association of Counties under the Off-System Bridge Prioritization Program. Off-system bridges are not on the state highway system and are typically owned and maintained by local governments.

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, Butte office, PO Box 3068, Butte, MT 59702-3068. Please note that comments are for project UPN 10504000.

The public is encouraged to contact the Consultant Project Manager Karl Yakawich at 406-495-6182 with questions or comments about the project.

Project ID: SFCX 9001(66)