Perma bridge work begins this week
The Montana Department of Transportation and Frontier West expect to begin work rehabilitating the Perma bridge over the Flathead River on July 24.
This bridge was originally constructed in the early 1960s and needs repair. The amount of wear and tear on this bridge is normal for its age. This project will rehabilitate several bridge components and ensure that the bridge is able to serve the traveling public for many years.
For approximately three months, traffic will be reduced to one lane over the bridge and controlled by traffic-sensing smart signals. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place during the day from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The river beneath the bridge will remain open, but signage may direct boat or raft traffic to one side of the river at a time.
The bridge is anticipated to be completely closed to traffic starting Saturday, July 29 at 6 a.m. and reopen on Sunday, July 30 at 6 p.m. This closure is necessary to allow Frontier West to jack the bridge deck up and replace four bearings and repair a girder. There will not be a detour at the bridge. Motorists are encouraged to use Montana 28 or U.S. 93 as an alternate route.
MDT anticipates repairs on the bridge will be substantially completed this fall. Painting on portions of the steel superstructure to inhibit corrosion is expected to take place in 2024.
More information about the planned improvements and construction activities can be found at mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/permabridge/. For current traffic conditions and up-to-date construction information throughout Montana, visit 511mt.net.
If you would like to sign up to receive text notifications about construction activities, text PERMA to 866-434-0866 (toll-free*). Questions and comments can be directed to Brandon Coates at brandon@rbci.net or by phone at 406-545-0800.
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