The City closed the Northside Pedestrian Bridge in September 2022 for safety considerations when significant fractures were discovered in the bridge decking and supports. The bridge will remain closed until repairs are completed. The repair and safe bridge reopening is a top priority for Mayor Hess, the Missoula City Council, and City staff in Parks, Transportation, and Administration. Project managers plan to reopen the bridge in 2024.
The City Council awarded the construction contract for the bridge rehabilitation project to Jackson Contractor Group (JCG) on July 10, 2023. JCG is currently negotiating with the adjacent rail yard for construction access. Once approvals are received, construction will start on the north tower. Since the contract award, JCG has been actively preparing for the start of construction:
- Secured the necessary city building permits.
- Entered negotiations with adjacent property owners to access their properties as needed during construction.
- Ordered the required construction materials.
- Hired subcontractors.
- Developed detailed project timelines.
The contract requires JCG to complete all aspects of the bridge rehabilitation work by July 1, 2024. Some key updates on the project status:
- The bridge's drainage system has been redesigned to channel water more efficiently and reduce the chance of damage to the bridge.
- JCG plans to mobilize equipment and crews on site in early September 2023.
- JCG is still waiting for railroad approvals to begin work in the active rail yard nearby. Once approvals are received, construction will start on the north tower.
- Trees near the north tower will be removed for construction access and staging. They will be replaced, and the entire construction zone will be restored after project completion.
Factors outside the City and JCG's control could impact construction, especially supply chain issues and winter weather. Subscribe to the Northside-Westside Notify Me list for periodic updates about the bridge project.
For more information, please contact Parks and Recreation project manager David Selvage via email or phone at 406-552-6252.