Governor Gianforte Highlights Infrastructure Investments in Rural Montana
Gov. Greg Gianforte continued his 56 County Tour in Wibaux and Fallon counties, highlighting infrastructure investments in rural Montana. Since taking office, Gianforte has made strategic investments in communities across Montana, delivering real results through revitalized infrastructure, upgraded facilities, and new opportunities for businesses. The governor met with county officials to tour the repaired Carlyle Bridge and the rehabilitation of the Baker State Bank Building, demonstrating the impact of state-funded programs like the Montana Coal Endowment Program and the Securing Access to Federal Expenditures to Repair (SAFER) Montana Roads and Bridges Act.
Key Takeaways:
- Gov. Gianforte's 56 County Tour aims to highlight infrastructure investments in rural Montana, continuing his efforts to support community development and economic growth.
- The Carlyle Bridge, repaired through the Montana Coal Endowment Program, is a critical infrastructure project that showcases the state's commitment to preserving rural roads and bridges.
- The total estimate cost of the Carlyle Bridge repair project is approximately $1.4 million, funded through a $691,350 MCEP grant and matched dollar-for-dollar by the Montana Department of Transportation.
- Gov. Gianforte has prioritized investing in Montana's critical infrastructure, leveraging up to nine federal dollars for every one state dollar and investing $100 million to repair roads and bridges through the SAFER Montana Roads and Bridges Act.
- The governor proposed and secured an additional $10 million a year toward bridge repairs, demonstrating his commitment to addressing the state's infrastructure needs.
- The Baker State Bank Building, rehabilitated by the Southeastern Montana Revitalization Team and the Baker Chamber of Commerce, is an example of community-led preservation efforts supported by state grant funding.
- Katie Miller, executive director for SMART, emphasized the importance of preserving historic buildings like the Baker State Bank Building to maintain community vibrancy and cultural heritage.
Sources:
- [Original text provided]
- Senator Bill 536: https://leg.mt.gov/bills/2023/Passed/BP0225.pdf