Dodson South Canal

Construction Update

Construction is nearly complete and is expected to finish this summer, depending on weather and other unforeseen factors. Traffic control is not anticipated until the chip seal work begins. That work is planned for later in the summer.

Project Overview

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and Wickens Construction have rehabilitated the Milk River Bridge and replaced the bridge over the Dodson South Canal, which are located approximately 2 miles south of Dodson on Secondary Highway 204 (S 204).

The old Dodson South Canal bridge was in poor condition and was replaced with a 14-foot by 10-foot double-cell concrete box culvert. The new culvert allowed for construction of gradual roadway slopes and the removal of the guardrail. This improvement aims to enhance safety features and reduce roadway maintenance.

In addition to the bridge replacement, the Milk River Bridge was rehabilitated and a pavement preservation project on S 204 between the Dodson South Canal and US Highway 2 (US 2) is expected to be completed in 2025. This work will include safety improvements and the addition of a chip seal layer on 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 complete.
The roadway resurfacing (also known as chip seal or seal and cover) between the Dodson South Canal and US 2 will happen later this summer. Temporary striping has been installed; epoxy striping will be installed after the new surface has been laid.