Spring has sprung with the usual signs and one that can be annoying, but the end result is worth it. Orange cones and barrels are on I-90 with more to come.

The Montana Department of Transportation and Frontier West will begin work rehabilitating the eastbound bridge over the Clark Fork River 5 miles east of Alberton. Pending weather conditions and unexpected discoveries, this project is a major undertaking. Planned improvements include full bridge deck replacement, new barrier and guardrail, replacement of expansion joints, transverse deck grooving, improved drainage, bridge approach roadway work, minor substructure repair, and structure spot cleaning and painting.

Speed limits will be reduced throughout the construction work zone, and width and length restrictions will be in place. The river beneath the bridge will remain open, but signage may direct boat and raft traffic to one side of the river at times.

“For the safety of the traveling public and the contractor, the eastbound bridge will be closed and traffic will be crossed over to the westbound lanes,” said John Benda, MDT Engineering Project Manager. “Both east and westbound traffic will travel on the westbound side of the interstate for approximately 2 miles.”

This bridge was originally constructed in 1979 and has gone through several minor rehabilitations since then. The bridge remains safe to drive on but this rehabilitation work is needed which will extend its service life for many years.

“The westbound bridge does need some repairs and is anticipated to be rehabilitated as a separate project after the eastbound bridge is rehabilitated. The westbound driving surface is in better condition than the eastbound and will not need as much work,” explained Brandon Coates,

Project Manager with RCBI in Helena who works closely with MDT on outreach. More information about the planned improvements and construction activities can be found at: https://www.mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/i90eastalberton/. For current traffic conditions and up-to-date construction information, visit 511mt.net.