Built in 1962, the Beartracks Bridge – originally called Higgins Avenue Bridge – needed significant repairs after decades of heavy use. The $16.5 million rehabilitation of this bridge significantly improved connectivity within the city by providing reliable access across the river. The Beartracks Bridge, a crucial link for multimodal transportation along Higgins Avenue, offers access to downtown Missoula for various groups. Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) focused on rehabilitating the bridge to ensure safety and reliability for all travelers while extending its lifespan. By widening the structure to include separated paths, it now safely serves both bicyclists and pedestrians. Enhanced safety and traffic flow also support Missoula’s zero-fare public transit service, which uses the bridge daily. With support from the MDT and the Montana Transportation Commission, a dedication ceremony was held by Missoula County and the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) in 2022, renaming the structure “Beartracks Bridge.” This new name is culturally significant to CSKT in honoring tribal ancestors forced to flee their homes and follow the “Salish Trail of Tears,” which passed through what is now the City of Missoula in 1891.
America's Transportation Awards 