Temporary Bigfork pedestrian bridge deemed unworkable

A suite of options for a temporary pedestrian crossing to replace the shuttered Bridge Street Bridge in Bigfork has been deemed impractical in an analysis by Flathead County.

The report released Wednesday ruled out seven alternatives that ranged from erecting a suspension bridge over the Swan River, to installing a rental kit bridge or prefabricated steel truss span. The analysis found that each of the options presented sizable constraints involving utility relocation, right-of-ways and permitting. Modifying the existing span for pedestrian use was determined to be unsafe due to its deteriorated condition.

The report ultimately determined that the only feasible solution is to replace the historic structure. Construction on the new steel truss span is currently planned to happen in 2026.