Bigfork Bridge Update: Businesses Ready To Reopen

 

See the construction cam here.

If you’ve been waiting for the bridge in Bigfork to reopen, the end is in sight. After more than a year of detours, delays, and limited access to downtown, the new bridge is nearly finished. The old bridge was shut down in 2023 due to serious safety concerns and was removed completely. Since then, construction has been steady, and now, the structure is in place, the road surface is poured, and crews are working on the final details. The target opening date is just weeks away: July 4th.

Why the original bridge was removed. The original bridge served Bigfork for decades, but time caught up with it. In early 2024, inspectors deemed it unsafe for both vehicles and pedestrians. It was fully closed and then carefully lifted away by a crane. The removal left a significant gap, not just in infrastructure but in access to downtown businesses. Many merchants saw fewer visitors, and parking became more limited on the north side of the river.

Today, the new structure is in place. The concrete deck has been poured, and crews are now installing side barriers and preparing the pedestrian walkway. That walkway will be safely separated from the road, making it easier for people to cross on foot. The final stage includes finishing the approaches that connect the bridge to the road on each side.

Why this matters to Bigfork. The bridge does more than connect roads—it supports the entire downtown. It brings in foot traffic, opens access to key parking, and allows residents and visitors to move easily across the river. Its closure has impacted local events, shopping, and daily routines. Reopening this bridge will help restore traffic flow, ease congestion, and support the businesses that have endured a long year of lower activity.

Let’s talk about your next move. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just keeping an eye on Bigfork’s growth, local infrastructure matters. This bridge project is a sign of progress and a reason to take a fresh look at real estate opportunities in the area. Call me at 406-837-5531, email ScottHollingerMT@gmail.com, or visit www.flatheadrealestate.com to connect.