South Fork bridge project starts June 12

Sletten Construction was the low bidder on the U.S. Highway 2 South Fork of the Flathead bridge replacement and is scheduled to start work on the project June 12.

Sletten’s bid came in at $12,733,429. Work is expected to begin June 12. There is no official detour planned for the project. Traffic will continue to use the old South Fork bridge while the new bridge is being built. The project includes a new alignment for the highway in a portion of the Bad Rock Canyon. It softens the curve into the bridge and broadens the shoulders as well.

Throughout the duration of the project, Sletten Construction said it’s committed to limiting delays whenever possible. Any delays that would impede traffic will take place between the hours of 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. through Labor Day. They ask that drivers are asked to please be mindful of the road work taking place, obey all signage and flaggers and remember that fines double in work zones.

The waterway passages below the bridge will have some restrictions during summer months but will not be closed to all floating traffic. Closures will be marked.

The new bridge will feature a bike/walking path and the project will also enhance bicycle and pedestrian access to the South Fork when work is completed.

The project is expected to be completed by November, 2018, provided the weather cooperates. Sletten has offices across the West, including one in Great Falls.