Missoula’s Russell Square Area Sees Big Changes After Stormwater Project

The transformation of Missoula continues. The other day we noticed the closure of a business that was at the same location for decades.

Related: ICYMI- A Long-Time Missoula Business Quietly Closed Its Doors

When I was younger, long before Missoula's Russell Square Shopping Center, my friends and I would spend time in the swampy area around there (Cattail Corner). We would try to catch a turtle or two among the cattails. We weren't very lucky; the only thing I caught was some muddy school clothes, and the wrath of my angry mother.

That area has gone through a lot of changes over the years. The businesses have expanded and changed.

Related: New Business Arriving in Montana, May Open Soon in Missoula

If you have driven by the area over the past few years, you may have noticed that work was being done to make improvements. There has been enough work done that the fences have been taken down, and people and wildlife can now explore the area.

Over the weekend I was able to walk around the area and experience the changes that have been made. There was wildlife and families taking their kids and dogs for a walk.

The updates to Cattail Corner have been made to help with stormwater runoff and to help the water get into Missoula aquifer.

The runoff water doesn't pass through Missoula's wastewater system, so the city is asking for people's help in keeping this area clean. Please don't throw your trash in the water and make sure you clean up your pet's waste if you take them for a walk in the area.

If you want to learn more about what other plans the city of Missoula has for the area and other stormwater projects, they have a website you can visit here. You can also call them at 406-552-6379.

In the meantime, I am going to enjoy the area when I can. I may miss the cattails, but I won't miss the muddy shoes.