Johnson Street water main plan moves redevelopment ahead in Missoula

MISSOULA, Mont. — A key piece of the Johnson Street redevelopment project moved forward after the Missoula Redevelopment Agency approved funding for new water infrastructure.

The approved investment totaled $80,000 in tax increment financing for design and engineering of a new water main. The line was planned to run four blocks along Johnson Street with connections into West Kent, West Central and West Sussex.

NonStop Local was on Johnson Street, where early work in the ground was expected to help shape future building in the area.

According to the broadcast script, the project was meant to close gaps in the area's water system. City leaders said that would improve water flow and fire suppression while also making development possible on land that is now vacant.

Design work was expected this summer. Bidding was expected next winter, and construction could start as soon as next year.

City leaders said that timeline could match possible development in the area and help avoid tearing up the street more than once.

Readers may want to learn more about the Missoula Redevelopment Agency Missoula Redevelopment Agency | Missoula, MT - Official Website. They may also want to review details tied to the Johnson Street redevelopment project Missoula Redevelopment Agency Board - April 16, 2026.