Transportation and neighborhood infrastructure—especially traffic safety, sidewalks and uncontrolled intersections—ranked high among topics discussed by candidates at the Missoula forum.

Candidates described both citywide and neighborhood-level concerns. Candidate Justin Ponton said Ward 2 faces “infrastructure as we deal with just a lot of growth,” citing Reserve Street and Mullen Road safety work and the Reserve Street safety action plan as near-term implementation priorities. He named specific problems: high speeds on Mullen, uncontrolled intersections on Reserve and a roundabout configuration that confuses drivers.

Candidate Betsy Kraske emphasized traffic calming and sidewalks for children and seniors in Ward 1: “North Side folks wanting traffic calming in their neighborhoods... wanting sidewalks, wanting safe streets for kids.” Candidate Rebecca Dawson also pointed to growth-related congestion on North Reserve and Mullen Road and urged resident input in road design. Lucas Moody highlighted walk- and bike-friendliness, noting missing sidewalks on walk-to-school routes in Ward 1.

Why it matters: Road safety and infrastructure affect daily life, school routes, emergency access and neighborhood quality of life. Candidates tied traffic priorities to broader planning and to expected growth in their wards.

Discussion vs. decisions: Candidates pledged to prioritize implementation of safety plans and neighborhood outreach; no formal council directives or votes occurred at the forum.

Ending: All four candidates prioritized targeted traffic and infrastructure fixes that could be acted on through council direction to city staff and project funding decisions.