MT: Lolo Street Bridge Project

“Essential” River Crossing Gets Essential Replacement

Challenge: Built in 1966, the Lolo Street Bridge in Missoula, Mont. is one of only two essential bridges over Rattlesnake Creek. According to a local report, “The concrete on the bridge is spalled, rebar is exposed on most of the bulb-T beams, one side of the bridge’s sidewalk is crumbled down to rubble with exposed rebar, and under the bridge, the foundation is starting to crack.”

Solution: With help from federal infrastructure funding, Missoula County is moving forward with a plan to replace the 60-year-old crossing. The proposed replacement bridge would allow more space for vehicles, and its 10’ non-motorized space can accommodate cyclists and pedestrians with sidewalks and bike lanes on both sides.

What they’re saying: 

“The Lolo Street Bridge provides vital connectivity in Missoula’s Rattlesnake neighborhood, which is especially critical during evacuations related to wildfires or other disasters.“  – Missoula County Commissioner Dave Strohmaier (Missoula Current, 04/09/2024)

“I am thrilled that it is getting replaced and I do not like waste, but the deteriorating sidewalk has proven dangerous to both my kids and my vehicle.” – Local Resident Becky Douglas (Montana Right Now, 07/19/2024)

Photo credit: Missoula County Voice, Missoula County’s online engagement platform.