Missoula, MT — The City of Missoula is moving forward with plans to install a traffic signal at the intersection of Cregg Lane and Orange Street, an area that has long been a concern for local drivers. Bids for the project were opened on April 25, 2025, with construction expected to begin this fall.
As the Old Sawmill District continues to expand, congestion around the intersection has grown significantly. Drivers often report long waits in the left-turn lane, sometimes sitting for several minutes before being able to make a turn. In response to these concerns, the city is implementing changes designed to improve traffic flow and enhance safety.
Ryan Guelff, a Transportation Engineer with the City of Missoula, explained that the new traffic signal will help manage the flow of vehicles turning off and onto Cregg Lane. The project will also include modifications to turn lane lengths, as well as updates to bike signals, bike crossings, and pedestrian facilities. The installation of new crosswalks across Orange Street will further improve access for pedestrians and cyclists in the area.
The intersection has become a priority for both the Montana Department of Transportation and the City of Missoula, particularly following a series of near-misses and a fatality involving a motorcyclist in recent years. Guelff emphasized that the new traffic signal is a crucial step in improving safety at this high-traffic location.
“The goal is to reduce the mental load for drivers who are trying to watch for pedestrians while also searching for gaps in traffic,” Guelff said. “By installing a traffic signal, we’re eliminating that challenge, which will be beneficial for both safety and overall access.”
The estimated cost for the traffic signal project is approximately $550,000. The city will share the construction costs with the developer of the Old Sawmill District, with nearly a 50/50 split between the two parties. The city’s portion of the project will be funded through transportation impact funds, and the remainder is expected to be recovered from the development’s contribution.
Once completed, the traffic signal will provide a more controlled environment for vehicles exiting downtown Missoula onto Orange Street, improving the overall flow of traffic. The city hopes the changes will not only ease congestion but also create a safer environment for all road users.
