Missoula, MT — The Missoula City Council took a significant step toward denser housing during its meeting on Monday night, voting in favor of rezoning a property on California Street and River Road. This decision is part of the city’s broader land use plan, which aims to address the growing demand for housing in the area.
The council approved the rezoning of a property on California Street and River Road to allow for higher-density housing. This move is expected to bring a substantial development to the area, potentially adding 235 dwelling units and 8,500 square feet of commercial space. Additionally, the council also approved the annexation of 400 California Street, which is adjacent to the rezoned property.
While the development plan has been in the works for some time, concerns were raised regarding the properties’ location in a floodplain. Several council members and local residents voiced their worries about the potential risks of building in an area prone to flooding, especially as the region faces increased environmental challenges due to climate change.
Vicki Watson, a resident of the area, expressed her concerns during the meeting. “During the downtown master development process, many of us brought up that Missoula must avoid new or more dense development in the floodplain,” Watson said. “It’s not doing anyone a favor to house them in an area with a growing risk of flooding. And when we reduce the flood risk in one part of the floodplain by filling it in or building dikes and levees, we send bigger floods to the people downstream. That sends the problem downstream mentality is why the Clark Fork is lined with Superfund sites.”
Despite these concerns, the council moved forward with the annexation of 400 California Street, which is also located in the floodplain. The rezoning request for this property mirrors that of the California Street and River Road site, further emphasizing the city’s focus on accommodating the demand for more housing.
Looking ahead, the city council is also preparing to make a decision on the annexation of 2100 Flynn Lane, which could see additional development in the future. This decision is part of a broader strategy to address Missoula’s growing population and the need for more affordable housing options.
On a lighter note, Mayor Andrea Davis took a moment during the meeting to celebrate Missoula’s 37-year streak as a Tree City USA recipient. She encouraged the community to continue planting trees, underscoring the city’s commitment to environmental sustainability even as it pursues urban development.
As Missoula navigates its growth and environmental concerns, the debate over floodplain development is likely to continue. The city faces the challenge of balancing the need for new housing with the preservation of its natural resources and the safety of its residents.
