Greetings, Beacon readers! Ever since a December windstorm blew 70 mph gusts across northwest Montana’s valleys, I’ve identified a common thread that various Flathead County departments have repeatedly brought to the attention of commissioners over the last six months: blowdown. The downed trees have kept trail and road crews very busy cleaning up the mess as summer approaches and a high volume of travelers pass through these arteries.
While county roads have long been clear of trees since the wind event, Public Works Director Dave Prunty last week told commissioners he’s been in communication with Flathead County Sheriff Brian Heino about the spring runoff carrying debris downriver and piling onto bridges and other infrastructure.
The Old Steel Bridge over the Flathead River in Evergreen is a prime location for pileups, but Prunty said the west side of the under-construction Sportsman’s Bridge in Bigfork saw the most debris. It hasn’t, however, caused any issues.
While logjams present hazards for river recreationists, Prunty was also concerned about boaters on Flathead Lake this summer.
“Debris out there in the middle of the lake is something to watch for as we get through the first part of summer,” Prunty said. “I think that’s an interesting one that could be a result of the windstorms that probably isn’t in a whole lot of people’s heads. It certainly wasn’t in my head.”
Another trend Prunty is noticing in recent years is a steady stream of abandoned RV trailers on county roads during the summer, which continues to trigger headaches for his staff who are tasked with getting rid of them.
Roads department officials last week found a trailer near the intersection of Conn Road and Trumble Creek Road and another at McGregor Lake.
Flathead County Sheriff’s Office authorities must first tag the vehicles and solid waste crews then head to the location with “boom trucks” to demolish them on-site, clean up the mess and haul it to the landfill. Tow trucks are also sometimes contracted, but Prunty described drivers as “resistant” to “dealing with these things.” The bill usually winds up costing taxpayers up to $1,000 per vehicle.
“The frustration level is off the charts when it comes to crap like this,” Prunty said. “I just wanted to let you know it’s started for the season.”
The enhancements include milling, asphalt replacement, chip sealing, rumble strip installation, bridge repairs and more, which will be implemented over the next six months.
Motorists can expect single-lane closures, reduced speeds and minor delays during construction and are encouraged to plan ahead.
I’m Maggie Dresser, here to deliver today’s Roundup.
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