Tester seeks funding for Noxon Bridge replacement
The Noxon bridge that connects Highway 200 with the town was closed in July. (Paul Sievers/The Western News)
U.S. Senator Jon Tester last week sent a letter the Biden administration asking for assistance in replacing the Noxon Bridge and fully restoring access to Noxon’s downtown area.
In a letter to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Tester said the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has funds to support a new bridge.
“This historic bridge is critically important to the economic success and safety of the Noxon community,” Tester wrote. “In the coming weeks, I ask that you prioritize working with MDT and the local community to develop a plan to swiftly deploy funds from my bipartisan infrastructure legislation to replace the Noxon Bridge and fully restore access to Noxon’s downtown area.”
In July, the Montana Department of Transportation issued a bridge closure order for the Noxon Bridge, citing public safety concerns. Officials completed temporary repairs on the bridge in July, however, traffic flow is heavily restricted, and an engineering firm hired to evaluate the bridge has recommended full bridge replacement as soon as possible.
The historic Noxon Bridge provides the main access to the town of Noxon from Montana 200 and serves a critical role for the town’s infrastructure, logging operations, school bus transportation, postal service and general operations.
According to Tester's letter, the only alternative routes into Noxon are a partially maintained road from Noxon to Trout Creek and a road to Heron that is mostly gravel.
“I am worried about the immediate effects that the restrictions on this important roadway will have on the ability for Noxon residents and folks who conduct business in the area to travel to and from Noxon’s main street,” Tester continued. “Furthermore, I am concerned about the ability of emergency services vehicles to travel in and out of downtown should an emergency occur in the area … I ask that you work to support Montana’s efforts to replace the historic Noxon Bridge. I stand ready to work with you on this important matter.”
Tester helped negotiate the bipartisan infrastructure law with five Republicans and four Democrats and was the only member of Montana’s congressional delegation to vote for it. According to Tester's office, the legislation includes $2.82 billion for Montana’s roads, highways and bridges. Tester also worked to ensure that all iron, steel, and construction materials used for these projects must be made in America.
This year, Montana will receive $45 million through the Federal Highway Administration Bridge Formula Program funded by IIJA, $6.75 million of which must be used for off-system bridges like the Noxon Bridge, according to Tester's office.