Stay updated on Missoula’s key happenings by subscribing to the free Missoula This Week newsletter, covering city government, schools, business, and events.
1/17/2025
“Missoula This Week” is reported and written By Katie Fairbanks. Send your Missoula news and tips to kfairbanks@montanafreepress.org.
‘If it’s cold out, we’ll find a place for you inside’
Missoula homeless shelters collaborate with city and county officials to provide adequate space amid an impending arctic front, predicted to bring the coldest temperatures this winter.
The National Weather Service forecasts snow on Friday, with increasing winds and temperatures plunging to single digits through Tuesday. Shelters currently have capacity but are strategizing additional space for the season, as noted by Emily Armstrong, houseless programs manager.
“We are always concerned for those outdoors in harsh weather,” Armstrong stated. “Service providers are ready to extend spaces to keep people safe and warm.”
At the Johnson Street shelter, 175-190 individuals stay nightly, although it accommodates 165 beds, said Jill Bonny, Poverello Center’s executive director. Additional beds are available at the West Broadway shelter. “We will not turn anyone away due to capacity,” Bonny assured.
With rising demands, Poverello Center seeks donations of blankets and warm clothing. The YWCA Missoula’s Meadowlark shelter for families and domestic violence victims is nearing capacity, with only a few spaces left, said Becky Margolis, YWCA communications manager. They are preparing to extend capacity as needed.
Since opening nearly four years ago, Meadowlark has seen increased demand, particularly among families. This is exacerbated by the lack of affordable housing, prompting the YWCA to invest more resources, including housing case managers.
While emergency shelter is a focus, the ultimate aim is transitioning people to housing, says Armstrong. Community support is encouraged through United Way’s Housing Solutions Fund, which depleted funds in October.
Public Notice
The Montana Department of Transportation seeks public feedback on U.S. Highway 93 improvements between Missoula and Florence. A study by Robert Peccia & Associates highlights traffic efficiency and safety enhancements, said Sarah Nicolai, RPA project manager. The project envisions a suburban design with additional lanes and medians in populated areas and proposes structural changes in rural zones to increase safety.
Residents can attend open houses on January 22-23 at Lolo School or contact Becca MacLean at becca@bigskypublicrelations.com for more information.
5 Things to Know in Missoula
The Missoula City Council has restricted garbage collection hours to start no earlier than 6 a.m. in residential areas. Adjustments were made to better protect residents and wildlife.
The Russell Street regional connector project received a $59.5 million federal grant, allowing for substantial infrastructure upgrades. The funding covers 80% of the total costs.
On Wednesday, the neighborhood grants program budget was increased to $35,000, enabling more community projects.
The city council approved a contract for the Downtown Safety, Access and Mobility project, advancing a major streets upgrade.
Missoula Animal Control will require appointments during renovations to improve facilities and services. Call 406-541-7387 for scheduling.
By the Numbers
The number of bill drafts and requests the city of Missoula is tracking as of Thursday.
Missoula’s legislative priorities focus on tax reform, behavioral health, and housing investments. City officials work with a lobbyist to represent their stance on relevant bills.
MLK Jr. Day
Join Missoula’s Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration on Monday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Parish. The event includes a history session, keynote speech, and award presentations, followed by a community social and dinner, and will be streamed live on MCAT.
—
Read More Montana News
