I flew into Missoula today and the Montana Airport is wrapping up a major multi-phase expansion that reshapes regional travel and brings broader economic shifts in its wake. Here are some of the details:
The Physical Build-Out
- Total Cost: Over $110 million for the full terminal expansion.
- What’s New: New gates, expanded baggage claim, rental car lanes, security upgrades, and room for new routes and carriers.
- Who’s Paying: a combo of the Feds and private interests
- Federal: More than $50 million in grants, mostly from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
- State & Local: Matched funds from the Missoula Economic Partnership, businesses, and banks—no local tax dollars used.
- Recent Boost: A $6M federal grant (2024) will help complete the next terminal phase.
Skyward Travel Growth
- Missoula set a passenger record in 2024: Over 1 million flyers, up nearly 12% from the year before.
- Targeting 1.5 million by 2044 as travel demand soars.
- Now offering more frequent flights and year-round service to Chicago, thanks to an $875k federal grant.
The Ripple Effects
📚 University of Montana Perks
- Easier access = stronger recruitment, research partnerships, and conference travel.
- Out-of-state students now find Missoula more reachable and appealing.
🏘️ Housing Pressures
- Expansion is fueling demand for housing, especially near the university and airport.
- Rent hikes are real: Locals report steep increases, with “affordable” now starting near $1600/month.
- Development impact fees (passed on to buyers) may also be contributing to rising costs.
💼 Local Economy
- Jobs during construction and in airport operations.
- Tourism boost: More flights mean more visitors spending at hotels, restaurants, and shops.
- Stronger air links help regional business and health access.
🚧 Challenges Ahead
- Affordability squeeze: Residents and students are feeling the pinch from rising rents.
- Infrastructure stress: More travelers and new residents will test city roads, utilities, and services.
- Equity concerns: Growth must be balanced to include long-term residents and low-income communities.
Final Approach
Missoula’s airport expansion is more than a construction project — it’s a gateway to growth. With smart federal funding and local vision, the region is positioning itself for a more connected future. But keeping Missoula livable as it grows will take coordination on housing, transportation, and community needs. How would one go about making some projections? Estimates of impacts and time frames could be interesting to local public leaders.
Home Economics 