MIST proposes changes on S. 5th and S. 6th Street for better access and mobility for all modes of transportation.

Existing:

Proposed:

Existing:

Proposed:

About this proposal:

Missoula lacks a connected, east/west on-street bike lane.

This proposal aims to change that by converting one existing motor vehicle lane into
a bike lane on both S. 5th and S. 6th streets (Russell to Arthur).

The motor vehicle volumes on both streets are low enough to make this proposal work.
Intersection capacity can remain the same as current if necessary by retaining two
stacking lanes for cars along with the new bike lane.

Pedestrians benefit from this proposal by having to cross only one lane at a time
Pedestrians are either killed or severely injured in Missoula each year when crossing
multi-lane arterials.

Cyclists benefit by gaining dedicated biking space.
Currently, cyclists are squeezed between motor vehicles and parked cars, with a high risk
of being ‘doored’ (hitting a suddenly opened car door).

Motorists benefit because of safer and smoother traveling speeds.
The current two lanes going one way encourages speeding and dangerous lane
changing.

Residents benefit by cars traveling at lower speeds on their streets,
which lowers engine noise, brake noise, pollution and dust.  Residents also benefit from the more intangible quality of 'increased peace of mind.'  Especially good for children, the slower speeds of cars and the much higher presence of walkers and bikers creates an improved sense of place, and a more playful atmosphere for young ones in their front yards.

This proposal is supported by Missoula’s Growth Plan and Long Range Transportation Plan
by encouraging more non-motorized travel and by connecting bike lanes.

A MIST survey of 800 cyclists over two years identified ‘connected bike lanes’ as the number one desired bike system improvement.

Other: no loss of parking, no reduced emergency services, easy maintenance, low cost to implement, connects central Missoula directly to the University of Montana.

More about intersection designs for the bikeway.

Here is our first choice- small graphic (includes 3-lane Higgins option).     Big graphic.    

Here is existing (small graphic).          Big graphic.

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