Intersection at Reserve and Brooks Closed for Repairs Sunday, April 8

This coming Sunday, Montana Rail Link will be doing work on the tracks that cross the intersection of Brooks and Reserve Street.

"That crossing was last upgraded with rubber crossing mats in 1992, these mats are nearing the end of their lifespan after having millions of cars and trucks pass over them in the past 26 years," said Montana Rail Link Chief Information Officer Jim Lewis. "The project will run on Sunday, April 8 from from 5:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m."

Lewis says the work should provide a smoother service for commuters, but will force people to find alternative routes through one of Missoula’s busiest intersections.

"The city of Missoula and the Montana Department of Transportation will have clearly visible detours around the work area," Lewis said. "It will lead to longer transit times for motorists in the area, so it is the recommendation, if at all possible, for motorists to stay out of the area."

Montana Rail Link rarely uses the track that runs through the intersection these days, much of the rail line down the Bitterroot is filled with empty coal cars.