Missoula traffic updates are essential reading this summer as the Montana Department of Transportation kicks off six major road projects across the Garden City, including Reserve Street widening, Brooks Street intersection upgrades, and a complete Higgins Avenue Bridge rehabilitation.

If you commute through downtown Missoula or use Reserve Street daily, expect delays, detours, and plenty of orange cones—but also long-term improvements that'll make navigating the valley easier by 2027.

6 Major Missoula Road Construction Projects Starting This Month

1. Reserve Street Widening (South Reserve, Expo Parkway to Mullan Road)

Timeline: June–October 2026

Impact: Lane closures during off-peak hours, left-turn restrictions

Why it matters: This stretch sees 35,000+ vehicles daily and desperately needs turn lanes and pedestrian crossings.

2. Higgins Avenue Bridge Rehabilitation

Timeline: July–September 2026

Impact: One-lane traffic with signals, expect 10–15 minute delays during rush hour

Why it matters: The 1960s-era bridge needs deck resurfacing and structural repairs to remain safe.

3. Brooks Street & I-90 Interchange Expansion

Timeline: June 2026–Spring 2027

Impact: Nighttime lane closures, temporary ramp closures

Why it matters: One of Missoula's busiest exits is getting safer on/off ramps and better pedestrian access.

4. Russell Street Bike Lane Addition (Broadway to Mount Avenue)

Timeline: June–August 2026

Impact: Shoulder closures, parking restrictions

Why it matters: Part of Missoula's Complete Streets initiative to improve cyclist safety.

5. Orange Street Repaving (Madison to Van Buren)

Timeline: July 2026

Impact: Full road closure for 2 weeks, detour via Broadway

Why it matters: Pothole nightmare finally getting fixed.

6. Mullan Road Roundabout at Flynn Lane

Timeline: August–November 2026

Impact: Significant delays, use alternate routes (South Avenue or Reserve Street)

Why it matters: Replacing a dangerous intersection that's seen multiple accidents.

How to Beat Missoula Summer Traffic Delays

Skip Reserve Street during morning and evening rush hours by using South Avenue or Mullan Road as east-west corridors.

If you're heading downtown from the Rattlesnake, take Van Buren Street instead of Higgins Avenue to avoid bridge delays.

Southbound commuters should use Russell Street or Stephens Avenue instead of Orange Street.

And if you work near the University of Montana, consider biking the Kim Williams Trail or using Mountain Line's free bus service—Route 2 runs every 15 minutes and skips construction zones entirely.

Download the Missoula in Motion app for real-time traffic alerts and construction updates.