Project Overview

Thousands of travelers commute to and from the Bitterroot Valley and Missoula every day. Specifically, the corridor between Missoula and Florence has seen steadily increasing traffic through the years. These traffic volumes created a need for an improved and safer roadway.

With this in mind, Robert Peccia & Associates (RPA), in partnership with the Montana Department of Transportation, studied the roadway between Missoula and Florence on US Hwy 93 south of Missoula.

The study took place from 2022 - 2025. Crew members surveyed traffic volumes, completed the crash analysis, and met with stakeholders along the corridor to gather insight on the current state of the roadway. In addition, environmental research and attention to emergency access and alternative modes of transportation was considered.

This area was studied previously in 2008 to consider the expanded capacity of the roadway, multi-modal transit options, improved pedestrian crossings and more. At the time, it was determined that an extensive construction project would need to occur, limiting major roadway access and causing delays on this busy thoroughfare. Due to project costs and incurred traffic disruption, this 2008 study was tabled until future funding or additional resources could be secured.

MDT and RPA returned to continue this research to determine a solution that incorporates public feedback and benefits the area while eliminating extensive traffic interruptions.

Study results identify long-term corridor solutions that may include an expansion of the roadway, turn lanes, and/or changes to intersections. Construction would not occur for many years due to the extensive design process and large construction cost.

Stakeholder meetings were requested, and public meetings were scheduled throughout the duration of the study. For the final study report, please visit the "June 2025 Final Report" link on the right-hand side of the webpage.

For more information, or if you have questions please call the project hotline during business hours at, 406-207-4484 or email becca@bigskypublicrelations.com.

US Hwy 93: Missoula to Florence Corridor Study. Click the image to view the PDF.

UPN 9977000