Congressman Zinke Delivers Over $14.3 Million in Federal Funding for Infrastructure and Public Safety Projects Across Flathead, Lincoln, and Sanders Counties

NORTHWEST MONTANA - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke traveled across northwest Montana to deliver ceremonial checks celebrating more than $14.3 million in federal funding he secured for infrastructure, transportation, and public safety projects across Flathead, Sanders, and Lincoln counties. The funding is part of the over $35 million he secured in fiscal year 2026 as a part of the appropriations process.

"States like Montana have been overlooked for too long, our infrastructure is aging and our law enforcement is underequipped for the massive acreage they cover. Replacing aging bridges, upgrading rural roads, and making sure our sheriffs and deputies have the gear they need protects families, supports local economies, and keeps Montana moving," said Congressman Zinke. "These projects were a team effort, from Sander County Commissioner Tony Cox calling me and my office near every day to the hard work of the Lincoln County Sheriff's office, we made sure this funding went to the priorities of the communities that need them most.

The day began in the Flathead, where Zinke delivered $1,000,000 for the installation of guardrails along North Fork Road in Flathead County. The project is in conjunction with the Flathead County Roads Department's planned repaving of the corridor.

"Projects like this happen when local leaders and our federal delegation work together toward a shared goal," said Flathead County Commissioner Brad Abell. "Replacing these guardrails might seem like a small detail, but along a road like the North Fork, it can make a real difference in protecting the people who travel it every day."

Zinke then traveled to Noxon, where he delivered $10,000,000 in funding for Phase 1 of the Noxon Bridge Replacement project. He also presented $965,000 for the Sanders County Law Enforcement Resiliency Project to help purchase new police vehicles and equipment for the Sanders County Sheriff's Office, and $1,150,000 to repave Marten Creek Road.

"Sanders County thanks Congressman Ryan Zinke for securing funding for the Noxon Bridge replacement, Marten Creek Road paving, and support for the Sheriff's Office," said Sanders County Commissioner Tony Cox. "These investments strengthen critical infrastructure, enhance public safety, and benefit the residents and communities who rely on them daily. Congressman Zinke's three visits to the Noxon Bridge demonstrate his strong commitment to supporting our community and its vital transportation links."

The final stop of the day was in Libby, where Zinke delivered $799,000 for the Lincoln County Law Enforcement Resiliency Project to support the purchase of new police vehicles and equipment for the Lincoln County Sheriff's Department. Zinke also presented $454,000 for repairs to the Troy Airport runway as part of the Rural Airport Reconstruction and Emergency Services Expansion project, which will help maintain reliable aviation access for emergency services and rural transportation.

"Deputies in Lincoln County patrol thousands of square miles, often in rough conditions and far from backup," said Lincoln County Sheriff Darren Short. "Reliable vehicles and updated equipment make a real difference in how quickly we can respond and how safely our deputies can do their job. We appreciate Congressman Zinke recognizing the needs of rural law enforcement and helping secure this funding."

Zinke was joined throughout the day by local officials and community members including Flathead County Commissioners Randy Brodehl, Brad Abell, and; Sanders County Commissioners Tony Cox, John Holland, and Dan Rowen; Sanders County Sheriff Shawn Fielders; Lincoln County Commissioners Jim Hammons and Brent Teske; and Lincoln County Sheriff Darren Short.

Views more photos of events here.

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