Highway 82 to get new bridge

Bigfork Eagle

Montana Department of Transportation announced a proposal last week to replace Sportsman's Bridge over the Flathead River on Montana Highway 82 between Bigfork and Somers.

The project wouldn't be scheduled for construction until at least four years from now, but MDOT is seeking comments on its proposal, which involves replacing the bridge to meet current roadway standards. This would include additional width and length.

MDOT is also evaluating horizontal alignment options for the bridge along with traffic control and impacts on private property and fishing site access. The final configuration may impact some right-of-ways and utilities. Department officials will contact affected landowners prior to survey work on their land.

The completion date of the project will be contingent on availability of funding and all project development activities.

For more information, contact Shane Stack, Missoula preconstruction engineer, at 406-523-5830. For the hearing impaired, the TTY number is 1-800-335-7592, or call the Montana Relay at 711. Written comments may also be submitted to the Montana Department of Transportation's Missoula office at PO Box 7039, Missoula, MT 59807-7039, or online at www.mdt.mt.gov/mdt/comment_form.shtml.