Dodson South Canal logo

Road Closure Update
Secondary Highway 204 (S 204), commonly known as Stage Road, remains closed to through traffic approximately 2 miles south of Dodson for construction on the Dodson South Canal project. When the closure began July 22, the expectation was that the road could reopen for a few weeks in the August/September timeframe, but conditions presented the opportunity to begin the second phase of the project early; the road will now remain closed until that phase is completed. The closure is expected to last into October or November, depending on weather and other factors. During the closure, a temporary detour is in place via Alkali Road, South Bench Road, and US Highway 2 (US 2). The detour is 23 miles long.

Project Overview

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and Wickens Construction are replacing the bridge over the Dodson South Canal, located approximately 2 miles south of Dodson on Secondary Highway 204 (S 204), with a new structure. The old bridge was in poor condition and is being replaced with a 14-foot by 10-foot double-cell concrete box culvert to maintain the safety and effectiveness of the route.

The box culvert will allow for gradual roadway slopes and removal of the guardrail. This improvement aims to enhance safety features and reduce roadway maintenance. In addition to the bridge replacement, the roadway leading to the new structure will be reconstructed. A pavement preservation project on S 204 between the Dodson South Canal and US Highway 2 (US 2) will also be completed while the road is closed. This work will include safety improvements and resurfacing of the roadway to extend the service life of the existing surface.

This project includes three phases:

  • The Milk River Bridge rehabilitation is complete.
  • The Dodson South Canal bridge replacement is underway. The bridge is expected to reopen to traffic for the winter by the end of November. Construction will resume in 2025.
  • The roadway reconstruction between Dodson South Canal and US 2 will begin in the spring of 2025, after all bridge work has been completed.

All three phases of the project require the traveling public to use the detour.

The detour is 23 miles long.

Project Map

Dodson South Canal Detour Routes map

Construction Photos

Pouring the deck on the Milk River Bridge

Pouring the deck on the Milk River Bridge.

Grooving the deck on the Milk River Bridge

Grooving the deck on the Milk River Bridge.

Wickens Construction Inc logo Slow for the cone zone

UPN 9553001, 10226000