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11/14/2025
“Missoula This Week” is reported and written by Katie Fairbanks. Send your Missoula news and tips to kfairbanks@montanafreepress.org.
Parking Enforcement Set to Begin on Hip Strip in 2026
Starting next year, the Hip Strip will experience increased parking enforcement, minus parking meters, city officials confirmed. The Missoula City Council voted to extend the jurisdiction of the Missoula Parking Commission to cover the Hip Strip, south of the Clark Fork River, effective January 1, 2026. This will enable the commission to manage parking through time limits, permits, and possibly meters in the future, according to Jodi Pilgrim, the commission’s parking services director.
Pilgrim stated, “I won’t say there will never be meters on the Hip Strip, but that’s not where we will start,” emphasizing the need for tailored management strategies distinct from the central business district. The expanded jurisdiction will help address resident concerns about parking access near their homes, especially as the area is prone to high vehicle occupancy during workdays and school sessions.
The commission had solicited public feedback on the proposal earlier this year through an online map and meetings. Opinions varied, with some locals supporting enforcement without meters and others opposing changes. The commission approved the expansion in September, citing its connectivity to downtown and the University of Montana’s parking permit area as key criteria.
Once time limits are enforced, demand may shift to surrounding residential areas. Pilgrim explained that expanding jurisdiction allows them to adapt without needing council approval for each adjustment. The commission’s studies since October 2024 indicate parking occupancy exceeds 75% on several blocks during peak times.
Residents compete for parking with spillover from Hellgate High School and nearby businesses, Pilgrim noted, adding that upcoming developments and changes to Higgins Avenue could further strain parking spaces. The commission plans to enforce safety and accessibility violations initially, employing twice-daily patrols Monday through Friday.
Collaboration with Hellgate High School is in progress to establish a parking permit program accommodating both residents and students. These permits will differ in cost from those in the university area, Pilgrim said. While the city council controls the commission’s jurisdiction and fines, policy decisions, like installing meters, rest with the commission’s board, which will involve public outreach before making any changes.
Verbatim
“I absolutely love Missoula. … I could never have imagined as a child getting to spend a career helping people meet each other, find ways to play and being able to steward the land at the same time.”
—Donna Gaukler, Missoula Parks and Recreation director, said during a city council meeting on Monday, during which Mayor Andrea Davis declared Nov. 12 as Donna Gaukler Day in recognition of Gaukler’s retirement this week after 34 years with the department.
Gaukler joined the city in 1991 as recreation manager and was promoted to director in 2002. As director, she led the city’s implementation of four voter-approved bonds and oversaw the opening of the Splash Montana waterpark, Currents Aquatics Center, and Fort Missoula Regional Park. Marina Yoshioka was appointed as the city’s new Parks and Recreation director and is set to start on January 5.
5 Things to Know in Missoula
Missoula County commissioners voted to intervene in NorthWestern Energy’s proposed merger with Black Hills Corp. The Montana Public Service Commission is assessing the merger, requiring approval from various state and federal entities. This action grants the county a participatory role without mandating a specific stance, allowing it to safeguard constituent interests, particularly those who are NorthWestern Energy ratepayers.
The Missoula County Public Schools Board appointed Denise Juneau to fill a vacant seat. Formerly the State Superintendent, Juneau was among seven candidates interviewed. Her term will be up for election in May 2026. Board Chair Wilena Old Person encouraged unsuccessful candidates to consider running for other positions next spring.
The Missoula City Council approved a conservation easement in the Grant Creek area. The Gleneagle easement, donated by the landowner, will preserve it from development. This land, featuring a grassland zone and a management area for the Missoula phlox flower, will eventually have a connecting trail.
The Missoula County commissioners approved a partnership with Girls on Shred for a winter rail garden at Marshall Mountain Park. This freestyle terrain park, funded by donations, will be free to the public and maintained by volunteers, officially recognizing a long-standing recreational use at the site.
The Missoula City Council will hold a public hearing on a rezoning proposal for Reserve Street, potentially for a new Les Schwab Tires location. The rezoning would allow for more intensive uses and density. The public can attend the meeting physically or virtually to provide feedback.
Upcoming Events
Missoula’s farmers’ markets are extending into winter. The Clark Fork River Market continues from November 15 through April 4 at The Badlander. The market features fresh produce, baked goods, and live music. Meanwhile, Missoula Valley Winter Market also offers a weekly selection at Southgate Mall.
The Turkey Curling Fundraiser, part of the Can the Cats food drive, will occur at the Glacier Ice Rink. Participants are asked to bring $25 or equivalent in non-perishable food items. No prior experience is necessary. Register at gopaddleheads.com.
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