MISSOULA — Two years ago, a popular walking bridge had to be closed due to structural damage, affecting pedestrian access from the northside of Missoula to downtown.
After undergoing major repairs, the bridge has finally reopened this week, much to the delight of residents who are already enjoying walking, biking, and playing on it to go back and forth between the northside and downtown.
“This just makes it a little bit easier for us to access everything,” shared Molly MacDonald, a resident of the northside.
The Northside Pedestrian Bridge was closed for repairs in the fall of 2022 due to deteriorating concrete ramps and cracking brick structure.
City Project Manager David Selvage explained that the bridge was also corroded due to improper drainage of snow-melting salt during the winter.
In September 2023, renovations began to restore this important connection for northside residents, with the work being eagerly anticipated by many like MacDonald.
The renovations included removing and rebuilding exterior masonry, installing new concrete, constructing new walls, replacing concrete ramps and electric systems, decommissioning the elevator, and enhancing drainage.
After a cost of nearly $3.5 million, the bridge is now open again, thanks to funding from a bond requested by the City’s Parks District.
“It’s an awesome resource for the northside community just to be able to get downtown super quick and easy and avoid driving,” said resident Nate King.
For many, the bridge is the preferred route to reach their destination quickly on foot or wheels, especially to avoid dark underpasses like the Orange Street detour.
With access restored, commuting has become more convenient, with residents like King planning to ride their bikes over the bridge as long as the weather permits.
The grand re-opening celebration for the Northside Pedestrian Bridge is scheduled for Saturday, August 3 at 10 a.m.
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