SIMMS, Mont. — The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is announcing and inviting the public to comment on a proposal to replace a failing culvert that channels Big Coulee beneath Secondary Highway 565 (S 565), approximately 2 miles north of Simms. A routine maintenance inspection alerted MDT to the situation before any roadway deterioration was observed and maintenance crews were able to complete an emergency culvert replacement in late 2025.
Proposed work includes replace at least one culvert in the area. The decision to replace or leave 2 adjacent culverts, which are in-place for additional drainage during high water events, will be determined during design.
Construction is tentatively planned for 2027 depending on completion of design and availability of funds. Right-of-way acquisition or temporary construction permits will likely be required for this project. Relocation of utilities will be necessary. MDT staff have contacted affected landowners for survey work. Landowners may be contacted again prior to construction regarding temporary permits.
Partnering with the community is an important part of properly planning for future projects. MDT welcomes the public to provide ideas and comments on the proposed project. Comments may be submitted online at mdt.mt.gov/contact/comment-form.aspx or in writing to Montana Department of Transportation, Great Falls office, PO Box 1359, Great Falls, MT 59403-1359. Please note that comments are for project UPN 10767000.
The public is encouraged to contact Great Falls District Project Development Engineer Jim Combs at 406-454-5900 or Project Design Engineer RJ Snyder at 406-459-5294 with questions or comments about the project.
For more information about active MDT projects around the state, please visit our website and MDT’s five-year Tentative Construction Plan.
---------end------------