U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that Missoula will receive $13 million to kickstart the first phase of their BUILD grant infrastructure project. Today’s announcement comes after months of partnership between Daines and the Missoula community.
“This funding is a big first step for the Missoula BUILD grant project and the community,” Daines said. “This project is important for infrastructure in Missoula as it helps in continuing to develop the city, as well as with construction of the new Missoula Veteran’s home. I look forward to continuing to partner with the city of Missoula, and working in Congress, to ensure they receive the full funding they need.”
The $13 million grant develops a connecting street and trail system in a growing area of Missoula including constructing new roads, intersection improvements including traffic signals and roundabouts, and enhancing the bicycle and pedestrian network.
Statements of Support:
“As a champion for the Missoula community, the Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to know that a portion of this year’s BUILD grant was awarded to the county. Throughout the application process the Chamber was proud to fill the role of connector between county planners, elected officials, government agencies and the private sector. The collaboration between a variety of groups on this project was unprecedented and shows what can be accomplished when we all work together. We thank Senator Daines’ office for their help in setting up meetings in Washington, DC as well as advocating on behalf of Missoula. We’re proud to have played a role in securing a BUILD grant award for Missoula and look forward to future collaborative projects in the community.” – Kim Latrielle, CEO, Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce
“This federal funding will help spur development of attainable housing, enhance connectivity and public safety, and ease congestion in a growing area of the county. We are grateful to our congressional delegation for working hard to make this happen and for the support of public, private and nonprofit organizations across our community. It’s a great example of how diverse organizations can come together to provide for the common good.” -Dave Strohmaier, Comissioner, Missoula County
Background:
In late October, Daines spoke with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, who is responsible for approving BUILD grants and expressed the importance of this project for Missoula and the state, highlighting the economic growth and development it would bring to the community.
In August, Daines met with Missoula county leaders at the proposed site to discuss the provisions needed for the project.
In July, Daines wrote a letter to Chao in support of Missoula receiving the BUILD grant.
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