Missoula approves study to convert Bitterroot branch railroad bridge to bike, ped use

A proposal to alter a railroad bridge on the Bitterroot branch line near downtown Missoula to allow bicycle and pedestrian traffic won funding to begin the project’s first phase, that being a study to determine if the idea is feasible.

The Missoula Redevelopment Agency on Thursday approved a $341,000 contract with HDR to study the bridge, consider its structural integrity and present a number of conceptual renderings. Given the age and unique qualities of the bridge, the inspection could take time.

Martin Kidston