FORSYTH, Mont. – The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), in partnership with Frontier West, Robert Peccia & Associates, and Morrison-Maierle, is pausing construction for the winter on the Timber Bridges – Forsyth Area project on U.S. Highway 12 between Forsyth and Ingomar.
The project will improve long-term safety and accessibility by replacing aging timber bridge structures with two new bridges and 12 reinforced concrete culverts. Once complete, the upgrades will remove existing weight restrictions, enhance roadway safety features, and support reliable access for emergency vehicles, agricultural traffic, and community events along the corridor.
“We got a lot of solid work done this year on some of the roughest structures out there,” said MDT Project Manager Jeremy Schneidt. “Shutting things down for the winter lets us come back next season ready to finish paving, tackle the remaining bridges, and keep traffic moving as safely and smoothly as we can for the folks who use this road every day.”
During the 2025 construction season, crews completed culvert installations and work at eight locations, including Bridge IDs 5496 (just west of Ingomar), 5497 (approximately 2 miles northwest of West Blacktail Road), 5499 (about 1 mile southeast of West Blacktail Road), 5500 (about 2 miles southeast of West Blacktail Road), 5506 (about 1 mile southeast of Vananda), 5507 (about 2 miles east of Vananda), 5508 (just east of Swanson Lane), and 5512 (approximately 1 mile south of Big Porcupine Creek Road).
Gravel and/or pulverized material currently cover the roadway at Bridge IDs 5499, 5500, 5506, 5507, and 5512. A reduced speed limit of 35 mph is in place at these locations and will remain through the winter, with ongoing maintenance. Paving is complete at Bridge IDs 5496, 5497, and 5508.
Construction will resume in 2026, with paving planned at the bridges currently surfaced with gravel. Crews will continue working on the remaining eight bridges, including two full replacements, to deliver a safer, more reliable corridor for the community.
Traffic control measures during the 2026 construction season are expected to include:
- Temporary detours (shoofly routes) at select locations
- Longer-term detours (approximately three months) at bridge reconstruction sites
- Single-lane closures with flaggers or traffic signals
- Occasional width restrictions, as narrow as 12 feet
- Continued access for school buses, emergency services, and large agricultural equipment
MDT will continue to coordinate closely with emergency responders, school districts, and local officials to minimize disruptions and maintain safe, efficient travel. Travelers should plan for delays, follow posted signage, and use caution in work zones.
To receive text alerts, text FORSYTH to 406-226-1603, or email ellac@strategies360.com to sign up for weekly project updates.
For questions or comments about the project, contact Ella Currier at ellac@strategies360.com or 406-465-7198. For more information, visit the project website at mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/forsythbridges.
MDT is a workforce of more than 2,000 people across Montana committed to ensuring the safe and reliable movement of people and goods. Our mission is to build, operate, and maintain a safe and resilient transportation system. For more information, visit mdt.mt.gov.