The City Club Missoula meeting on July 18, 2025, highlighted significant developments in long-range planning for the Brooks Corridor and the Missoula Airport, both of which aim to enhance community infrastructure and economic growth.

A key focus of the meeting was the conceptual design for the Brooks Corridor, which aims to improve bus services and multimodal facilities. This initiative is expected to stimulate economic development and redevelopment in the midtown area, addressing community needs for better transportation options. The planning process emphasizes the importance of integrating various modes of transport to create a more accessible and vibrant urban environment.

Additionally, discussions included the airport's long-range planning efforts, which have been ongoing for about two years. The airport's master plan includes the decommissioning of a crosswind runway that is no longer eligible for federal funding due to shifting wind patterns. Instead, the plan proposes a new parallel runway closer to the existing airport infrastructure, which will facilitate better access for general aviation while separating it from commercial traffic. This strategic move is designed to enhance operational efficiency and prepare for future growth in air travel.

During the meeting, community members raised questions about the airport's planning process and the potential for expressways to alleviate traffic congestion in the valley. Officials acknowledged the complexities involved in developing new routes, including the challenges of land acquisition and the misconception that bypasses would significantly reduce traffic issues.

As the meeting concluded, attendees were encouraged to engage further with the planning processes through the city's public works and mobility website, where additional information is available. The discussions underscored the city's commitment to proactive planning and community involvement in shaping Missoula's future.