Kalispell considers southside traffic study

Traffic in Kalispell’s growing southside neighborhoods is prompting the City Council to consider a traffic impact study for that area.

The council will vote at its Sept. 18 meeting whether to authorize a traffic study, focusing on two key intersections as Airport Road connects with 13th and 18th streets. If approved, the study, estimated at about $30,000, would be paid for using South Kalispell/Airport Tax Increment Financing District revenue.

The traffic volume related to urban development in South Kalispell has raised concerns about both vehicle and pedestrian safety, according to the South Kalispell Urban Renewal Plan. And traffic will continue to increase from ongoing development such as the new elementary school under construction along Airport Road, a 42-home subdivision and 55-unit apartment complex planned in that area.

In other business, the council will consider approving an easement and memorandum of understanding with Immanuel Lutheran Communities for the Immanuel Lutheran bike path.

Two years ago the council approved a conditional-use permit for five phases of development at the Immanuel Lutheran senior living/care facility. The development includes more than 92,000 square feet of new construction, 68,240 square feet of renovated space, surface parking lot expansions and utility and infrastructure improvements.

A condition of that permit approval required Immanuel Lutheran to grant an easement to accommodate a bike path along the properties’ western boundary.

The council meets at 7 p.m. at Kalispell City Hall, 201 First Ave. E.