BLM to chipseal Johnsrud-McNamara Road along Blackfoot River this month

MISSOULA, Mont. — The popular Johnsrud-McNamara Road, which follows the sinuous curves of the Blackfoot River 18 miles east of Missoula, will get a fresh layer of chipseal this month before the start of the busy summer season on the river.

The project will begin May 13 as crews chipseal the existing asphalt roadway 6.2 miles from Highway 200 to Whitaker Bridge. The road is a connecting link to several popular fishing and recreation sites along the Lower Blackfoot River corridor from Johnsrud Park to Whitaker Bridge. While the road will remain open throughout the project, the public can expect some temporary delays.

Additional work—including grading and improving delineation—will be done within the Blackfoot River’s day-use sites and Thibideau Campground. The campground will be closed to the public May 20-24 while that work takes place.

Lastly, in an effort to improve traffic flow and visitor experience, the parking lot at the Whitaker Bridge River access site will be bladed, graveled and expanded for additional trailer parking to the west of the main parking area.

For more information, call the Missoula Field Office at (406) 329-3914.