Missoula, MT – The Missoula City Council hosted a public hearing on the city’s 2045 Land Use Plan this week, with residents and city leaders discussing the future of development in the rapidly growing community. The plan, designed to accommodate the area’s increasing population, focuses on high-density housing in established neighborhoods with existing infrastructure, such as near public transportation routes and grocery stores.
A key element of the proposed plan is the balance between urban development and environmental preservation. The city is prioritizing areas where growth will have minimal environmental impact, while limiting development in areas like the Rattlesnake to protect the surrounding natural landscape.
Public feedback at the hearing was largely positive, with many residents expressing support for the city’s focus on equitable housing, sustainability, and accessibility. A recurring theme was the desire for housing options that meet the needs of diverse populations, particularly the elderly. Several community members voiced their approval of the plan’s emphasis on ensuring affordable housing in walkable neighborhoods that are well-connected to essential services.
Chris Young-Greer, a Missoula resident, expressed her support for the 2045 Land Use Plan, emphasizing its importance for aging residents. “I personally support this plan because it is vital for us that call Missoula home to have the assurance that we can contribute our talents, support, personally contribute, and community outreach as we age,” Young-Greer said during the hearing.
The proposed plan also calls for more mixed-use neighborhoods that integrate residential, retail, and commercial spaces, promoting local businesses and reducing reliance on cars. These types of developments, according to city planners, will help make Missoula a more vibrant, inclusive, and walkable city, offering a range of housing options while supporting local economies.
The City Council is set to review and discuss the plan further at a meeting scheduled for Wednesday. If all goes as planned, the council is expected to fully adopt the “Our Missoula 2025” plan on December 16. This adoption will mark a significant step in Missoula’s long-term planning strategy, shaping the city’s growth and development through the year 2045 and beyond.
