By Finley Timon EDITORIAL INTERN
The Montana Department of Transportation has announced a proposed project to replace the Spanish Creek Bridge and reconstruct approximately two and a half miles of U.S. Highway 191 southwest of Gallatin Gateway.
The project would begin at mile marker 66.5, where the Gallatin Canyon begins to widen roughly 1.5 miles north of the bridge to Storm Castle Road, and extend north to mile marker 69 near the intersection with Spanish Creek Road, according to an MDT press release.
Proposed improvements include a new southbound passing lane and a wider bridge over Spanish Creek to accommodate the passing lane and 8-foot shoulders. MDT stated that the purpose of the project is to “enhance roadway safety features,” and the announcement builds on recent MDT presentation to the community including a series of projects on U.S. 191 between Big Sky and Bozeman.
Construction is tentatively scheduled for 2029, dependent on completion of design and availability of funding, according to the release. MDT noted that the project may require temporary construction permits and moving power or water lines.
“MDT staff will contact affected landowners prior to survey work,” the release stated. “Landowners may be contacted again prior to construction regarding temporary permits.”
The department is encouraging public feedback on the project. Comments may be submitted online or by mail to the Montana Department of Transportation Butte office at P.O. Box 3068, Butte, MT 59702-3068. Comments should reference project UPN 10274000.
For questions, MDT directed the public to contact Butte District Preconstruction Engineer Brandon Jones at 406-494-9622 or Project Design Engineer Jacob Brotzler at 406-657-0266.
