Kalispell Planning Commission evaluates extension of Quail Lane for MDT facility

The Kalispell Planning Commission recently discussed a significant proposal that could reshape traffic flow and development in the area near Highway 93. The meeting focused on a conditional use permit (CUP) for a new Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) facility, which aims to consolidate equipment storage and maintenance operations currently located at a different site.

The proposed facility will be situated at the intersection of Rose Crossing and Highway 93, an area already equipped with a traffic signal. Surrounding properties include a Ford dealership, the Armory, and the Northern Pines Golf Course. The site is currently zoned as agricultural but is proposed to be rezoned to a public use designation, aligning with the city’s growth policy that encourages urban mixed-use development.

A key aspect of the proposal is the extension of Quail Lane, which will provide a new access route to the facility while minimizing direct access to the busy highway. This extension is expected to enhance traffic management by funneling vehicles to major intersections and improving overall traffic flow. The planning commission emphasized the importance of this road connection, noting that without annexation, the extension may not be feasible.

The proposed site layout includes multiple access points along the new Quail Lane extension, which will be designed to city standards, featuring sidewalks, landscaping, and street lighting. The commission also addressed concerns regarding state law and the potential need for a public road and utility easement instead of a full dedication of the roadway.

In addition to the road improvements, the proposal includes a 10-foot wide asphalt path along the highway, enhancing pedestrian access and safety. The landscaping and buffer zones will meet the entrance corridor standards set by the zoning ordinance, ensuring that the development integrates well with the surrounding environment.

As the planning commission moves forward with this proposal, it aims to balance the needs of the MDT with community interests, ensuring that infrastructure improvements support both current and future growth in Kalispell. The next steps will involve further reviews and potential amendments to the proposal based on feedback from the commission and the public.