Bridge work west of Alberton to begin this fall

The Montana Department of Transportation and Frontier West will be rehabilitating the westbound bridge that carries I-90 over the Clark Fork River, 8 miles west of Alberton.

This bridge, known as one of the Alberton Gorge bridges, needs repairs and they can be accomplished before winter gets much closer.

During construction, traffic will use crossover patterns to ensure I-90 traffic does not stop. Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction and both directions will travel on the same side of I-90. Travelers can expect reduced speed limits, and width and length restrictions in place.

MDT and Morrison-Maierle are currently developing plans for a full replacement of this structure as part of a future project. As is, this bridge is safe to drive on but needs these short-term repairs to extend the service life of the bridge until design plans and funding for the replacement project are completed.

Traffic crossovers will first be constructed, and the repairs include a steel support beam known as a girder and replacing bridge bearings. According to Wikipedia, a bridge bearing is a component of a bridge which typically provides a resting surface between bridge piers and the bridge deck. The purpose of a bearing is to allow controlled movement and thereby reduce the stresses involved.

Work is anticipated to begin in October and be completed in early November. The westbound Crystal Springs exit (Exit 65) will be closed for approximately two months beginning in October.

To access the westbound Crystal Springs exit, motorists should continue driving west and use the Tarkio Interchange (Exit 61). Then do an about-face and return to the interstate traveling eastbound then exit at the eastbound Crystal Springs Exit (Exit 65). Traffic will be able to enter the interstate at the westbound Crystal Springs exit.

If you would like to sign up to receive text notifications about construction activities, text ALB90 to 866-434-0866 (toll-free). Questions and comments can be directed to Brandon Coates at brandon@rbci.net or by phone at 406-465-3350.