Off-System Bridge Study, MDT and MACo logo Bridge Location: Petroleum County

Bridge Location: Petroleum County

Project Overview

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) will analyze the condition of our state’s “off-system” bridges, which are critical for moving goods and people, and represent one of Montana’s most significant challenges.

There are more than 2,000 off-system bridges in Montana, many have served their useful service life and are in disrepair, or load posted, which can greatly impact local and regional economies and our ability to easily move around.

The project, called the Off-System Bridge Study and Implementation Plan, will evaluate the current condition of off-system bridges, and develop a strategic implementation plan and processes for future repairs or replacement options for bridge owners (i.e., county governments). Due to limitations in funding, not all bridges can be addressed. The study and implementation plan will be the basis of a strategic plan for bridge owners to put infrastructure funding to work in the most effective manner possible.

Project Objectives:

  • Identify potential quick fixes for load posted bridges and bridges in poor condition. This would allow some bridges to remain in service until they are permanently repaired or replaced.
  • Determine a list of prioritized bridges and future candidate projects for off-system bridge owners to implement.
  • Identify funding opportunities for owners to partner with MDT to support bridge repair or replacement projects.
  • Engage and inform the public, counties, and other stakeholders throughout the process.

Initial Phase Deliverables

HDR is contracted with MDT to analyze the current state of off-system bridge needs and to develop a strategic plan for prioritizing projects and investments for the Off-System Bridge Program with the goals of improving condition, increasing mobility, and promoting economic development. The initial phase of the Off-System Bridge Study and Implementation Plan was initiated in June 2022 with a focus on understanding issues, evaluating the current condition of off-system bridges, engage and inform counties and stakeholders, and identify potential quick fixes for bridges in poor condition.

The initial phase of the Off-System Bridge Study and Implementation plan has been completed and below is the list of each document produced.
Download the Initial Phase Deliverables.

  • Off-System Bridge Scoring Tool and Introduction
  • Off-System Bridge Inventory Summary
  • Off-System Bridge Replacement Cost Scenarios
  • Public Involvement Summaries

Interactive Map

An interactive online map was developed to assist bridge owners and others with locating and understanding the condition of off-system bridges throughout Montana. The public is encouraged to utilize this interactive map, which can be found at the following link: MDT Off System Bridges Public Dashboard.

Vision Zero

MDT adopted the Vision Zero strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries, while increasing safety and mobility for all roadway users. MDT is working toward Vision Zero’s goals by engineering Montana roadways to ensure Montana’s thousands of miles of state roads, highways, and bridges are built and maintained with safety as the first concern.

To eliminate fatalities and serious injuries on Montana roadways, we need everyone to do their part.

  • Drive attentively
  • Drive sober
  • Drive to the conditions of the roadway and do not speed
  • Watch for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcycles
  • Give construction workers a brake
  • Eliminate distracted driving, including cell phone use
  • Wear your seatbelt

Together, we can save lives!

Stay Informed, Stay Involved

In addition to stakeholder meetings, the project team will communicate with you using direct mail, social and traditional media outreach, and a project website, among other tools.

New project information will be posted on this website as it becomes available, but you can request to be added to our mailing list or submit a comment electronically. To send us your U.S. mail or email address or to submit a comment; MDT’s Online Comment Form. Please note that your comments are for the Off System Bridge Study, UPN 10115. Thank you!

UPN 10115