Helena Advances Long Range Transportation Plan Amid Growth

Helena is shaping its transportation future amid a population surge of about one-third since 2000.

The Greater Helena MPO — or metropolitan planning organization — is in the final stages of putting together its Long Range Transportation Plan after two rounds of public feedback and now a third open house series this week.

After multiple rounds of public feedback, including two prior sessions, the MPO is hosting two more open houses this week at the Lewis and Clark Public Library and Civic Center to gather additional community input. Projects are categorized by priority and funding into near-term (first five years), mid-term (five to ten years), and long-term plans. Manager Ty Weingartner emphasized that public involvement is crucial to identifying real needs that will improve the community’s transportation system.

A draft of the plan is scheduled for release at the end of September, with final adoption expected in December.

For Montana’s capital, where geography and lifestyle encourage both commuting and outdoor activities, these transportation improvements could influence economic activity and daily routines. Local businesses and residents may see shifts in accessibility and safety that reflect Helena’s evolving growth patterns.

The MPO expects to release a draft of the plan for public review at the end of September before final adoption is expected in December.

The MPO will be hosting two more open houses, Wednesday at Lewis and Clark Public Library from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Thursday at the Civic Center from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., for anyone looking to provide their input or learn more about the projects.

Public transit, railroad crossings, traffic: Helena residents weigh in on transportation future
By Evan Charney, KTVH