NOXON — Rehabilitation of a bridge across the Clark Fork River north of Trout Creek is slated to begin next month, according to the Montana Department of Transportation.

Motorists can expect traffic on Highway 200 to be reduced to one lane through the construction zone.

Construction is expected to begin in early April and be completed by the fall 2020.

“MDT and our prime contractor, Kiewit, are committed to completing construction as quickly, efficiently, and safely as possible,” said Missoula District Construction Engineer John Schmidt. “We are using several methods to accelerate construction and minimize impacts to the community of Trout Creek and the traveling public.”

To expedite the work, construction will include placing precast concrete deck panels during a full closure of the bridge. The closure is expected to begin after school is out in late May or early June and last for six consecutive weeks.

Kiewit is also planning to work night and weekend shifts when practical and safe.

Other than when the bridge is fully closed (June through mid-July), motorists should expect traffic to be reduced to one alternating lane through the construction area and up to

15-minute delays across the bridge.

To sign up for construction email updates, text TROUTCREEK to 22828. Questions and comments can be sent to Brandon@rbci.net or by phone at (406) 465-3350.

Keith Kinnaird can be reached by email at kkinnaird@bonnercountydailybee.com and follow him on Twitter @KeithDailyBee.