County Confirms Repair Plans for Maclay Bridge

After receiving a detailed engineering recommendation and confirming funding sources, Missoula County now has a preliminary plan in place to temporarily repair the Maclay Bridge so it can be reopened to all traffic.

The recommendation from engineering firm HDR calls for the County to replace the deteriorating steel stringers that run under the bridge deck. This will require crews to remove portions of the deck, which will then be replaced. Following the required administrative approvals and contract finalization, Public Works crews estimate work to start this spring, dependent on weather and availability of materials. The County will provide another update when there is a firm timeline in place for repairs to begin.

The total cost of the repairs, including materials and labor, is estimated to be $65,000. The Montana Department of Transportation has committed to cover the cost of repairs with funding from Senate Bill 536.

These repairs will allow the County to reopen the bridge to traffic, bicycles and pedestrians for the time being. Construction on a new bridge upstream that would connect South Avenue to River Pines Road is tentatively slated to begin in 2026. You can find more information on the South Avenue Bridge online.