Glacier Country News

The City of Missoula’s Public Works and Mobility Department is set to commence a water main replacement project in the Lower Rattlesnake Neighborhood starting April 29, 2024. The project is expected to be completed by August 5, weather permitting.

According to the department, the project will impact residents of both Lower and Upper Rattlesnake Neighborhoods and individuals who utilize Monroe St. as an alternative route to Van Buren St. during traffic congestions caused by train blocks on Madison St./Greenough Dr. into downtown.

During the construction period, Monroe St. will be closed, leading to a detour route via Lolo St. and Rattlesnake Dr. for traffic heading towards Van Buren St. To ensure smooth traffic flow, detour signs will be placed in strategic locations, and additional signage will be posted around the work area. The department has assured that local access to homes within the construction zone will be maintained throughout the project.

The water main replacement initiative aims to enhance the municipal water system by replacing aging infrastructure dating back to 1914. Specifically, the project involves replacing approximately 1,750 feet of 6-inch Kalamein pipe and 2-inch invasion steel water main. The deteriorating condition of the current infrastructure, identified as leaking, necessitates the upgrade.

Adam Marsh, Utility Engineer, highlighted the benefits of the project, stating, "Replacing these segments of pipe will reduce water leakage and improve water service reliability." He further emphasized, "In addition, replacing old, leaking water main pipe reduces the water utility’s energy usage and related costs because the pumps that move water through the system will not need to operate continuously to pump water that leaks from the system before reaching customers."

For more information and detour maps related to the project, interested individuals can visit the City of Missoula's official website at www.ci.missoula.mt.us/2668/Water-Projects. Regular updates will be provided on the webpage throughout the construction phase. For inquiries regarding the project, Adam Marsh can be contacted at 406-552-6679 or via email at MarshA@ci.missoula.mt.us.