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02/13/2026
“Missoula This Week” is created by Katie Fairbanks. Send news tips to [email protected].
Mayor Discusses Key Public Projects
This year, three city-owned properties will undergo redevelopment, while plans for other locations, like the old library, require reevaluation, according to Mayor Andrea Davis. She updated the city council on the City Lands Redevelopment project, detailing how the city is deciding which properties to sell, lease, or redevelop for maximum public advantage.
“We approach community goals more like a mosaic rather than treating each parcel as a standalone decision,” Davis stated.
In 2023, an 11-member task force offered guidance on city land development. Two key sites, Riverfront Triangle and Midtown Commons, will proceed with development. At Riverfront Triangle, Averill Hospitality plans a hotel and conference center, alongside a public plaza and riverfront trail. The sale will contribute $7 million to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
Planning for Midtown Commons includes a public park, slated for concept reveal on Feb. 26. Miramonte Companies plans housing and commercial spaces.
Missoula is in talks with a developer for the North MRL Triangle, the former Johnson Street shelter site. A master plan suggests 250 housing units plus commercial and green spaces.
Public Notice
The Montana Department of Transportation will provide updates on the Russell Street project at an open house. The project includes reconstructing Russell Street from Dakota Street to Mount Avenue and West Broadway between Mullan Road and Cowper Street to support increased traffic and growth in the area.
The city received a $59.5 million federal grant for the project, covering 80% of costs. Design continues through 2029, with construction slated to start in spring 2029.
The open house is from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, at the Salvation Army at 355 S. Russell St. More project details are available online.
5 Things to Know in Missoula
Grant Creek Crossing Missoula LLC secured a $7.9 million TIF reimbursement for infrastructure at a development site south of I-90 and west of Reserve Street. The 84-acre area includes potential housing and commercial development with reimbursement contingent upon tax increment revenue.
Mount Jumbo sees increased trespassing despite seasonal closures, aimed at protecting wintering elk. Violations can result in fines up to $500. Trespassing incidents can be reported via the Mount Jumbo Tip Line at 406-552-9465.
Missoula County remains in a class-action lawsuit against Republic Services for alleged misrepresentation in dumpster size. The county waives the right to sue separately.
Several Missoula County Public Schools board trustees will serve another term after no challengers filed for election. Write-in candidates can file until March 2 for the May 2026 election.
The Swan Valley Neighborhood Plan was adopted, guiding future growth and development while maintaining the region’s rural character. It includes potential zoning restrictions but no current zones are in place.
Might be Fun
The Montana Repertory Theatre and the University of Montana School of Theatre and Dance present “Can’t Drink Salt Water,” an original play by Kendra Mylnechuk Potter. The play, portraying Native identity and maternal grief, begins this weekend.
Supported by The Roy Cockrum Foundation, the play features UM students and professionals. Shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, at Montana Theatre. Matinees occur Feb. 15, 21, and 22. Tickets are pay-what-you-can, with free options for Indigenous patrons.
An Indigenous art market will take place from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday in the Montana Theatre lobby in tandem with the matinee. The market is free, and attendance to the play is not required but is encouraged.
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