Missoula, Montana is a beautiful city nestled in the Rocky Mountains with a population of approximately 72,000 people. 2017 was a year of growth, change, and celebration for the community. In this article, we will take a look back at some of the most significant events that shaped Missoula in 2017.
New Developments
Missoula saw a significant increase in new developments in 2017. The Mercantile building, which had been vacant for over a decade, was renovated and turned into luxury apartments, retail spaces, and a hotel. The Kettlehouse Amphitheater, a new outdoor music venue, opened in Bonner, just east of Missoula. The new development brought in a variety of popular artists and bands, including The Avett Brothers, Ween, and Wilco.
Wildfires
2017 was a rough year for wildfires in Montana, and Missoula was no exception. Smoke filled the air for weeks on end, and many people were evacuated from their homes. The fires caused significant damage to property and wildlife, but no human lives were lost. The community came together to support one another and help those who were displaced by the fires.
Missoula Marathon
The Missoula Marathon is one of the most significant events in the city, drawing thousands of participants from all over the world. In 2017, the marathon celebrated its 11th anniversary and saw over 6,000 runners take part in the event. The race has a reputation for being one of the most scenic marathons in the country, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.
University of Montana
The University of Montana is a vital part of the Missoula community, and 2017 saw several significant changes to the university. The school welcomed a new president, Seth Bodnar, who came from General Electric’s executive leadership program. The university also announced that it would be cutting several programs due to budget constraints, which caused concern among students and faculty.
Downtown Missoula
Downtown Missoula is the heart of the city, and 2017 saw several significant changes to the area. The Roxy Theater, a beloved local landmark, underwent extensive renovations and reopened with a new digital projection system. The Missoula Art Museum also underwent a renovation and expansion, providing more space for exhibitions and events. The city also introduced a new parking meter system that allowed people to pay with their smartphones.
Conclusion
Missoula 2017 was a year of growth, change, and celebration. The city saw new developments, wildfires, the Missoula Marathon, changes at the University of Montana, and improvements to downtown Missoula. Despite the challenges that the community faced, the people of Missoula came together to support one another and make the city a better place. Missoula is a beautiful and vibrant city, and 2017 was a year to remember.
