Planners propose separated Higgins bikeway, two‑way Main/Front and a downtown streetcar as part of Missoula master plan

Project planners described a multi‑modal circulation strategy for Downtown Missoula at the workshop, including separated bikeways, conversions of Main and Front to two‑way streets, a proposed streetcar circulator and possible commuter‑rail links.

Don Crandall, one of the project presenters, framed the circulation proposals as part of a “complete‑streets” approach to reduce energy use and improve pedestrian and bicycle comfort. He told attendees the team is aiming for options that connect neighborhoods, the riverfront and major destinations such as the university, hospital and the transit center.

Major circulation proposals presented - Higgins Avenue bikeway: consultants proposed a two‑way, separated bikeway on the west side of Higgins to improve safety for casual cyclists. The plan uses Higgins’s wide right‑of‑way (the team cited…