🌱 YMCA Nearly At Rebuild Goal + US Highway 93 Public Comment Needed

Good morning, everybody. It's me, Sean Peek, your host of the Missoula Patch newsletter — here to explain all the most important things happening in town these days.

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But first, today's weather:

Times of clouds and sun. High: 51 Low: 31.

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Here are the three top stories in Missoula today:

1. The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) said that the city of Missoula can make improvements to its wastewater collection and compost systems without going through the typically required public process. DEQ approved the exclusion because the work required would be either a minor upgrade or rehabilitation of an existing system. At an Apr. 5, 2022, public meeting held by Missoula Utility Engineering, the cost of the 31 upgrades and replacements was estimated to be more than $3 million. (Missoula Current)
2. The Missoula YMCA needs another $1.5 million to reach its $15 million goal for a complete rebuild project that would include many upgrades, like a new 7,000-square-foot child care center. "The need for child care continues to grow," said Heather Foster, CEO of the Missoula YMCA. "The pandemic shined a light on the importance and infrastructure that child care creates." The Y currently cares for about 130 children, with the upgrade expected to provide space for 50 more. (NBC Montana)
3. The Montana Department of Transportation is asking for public comment on the proposal to resurface roughly 7.5 miles of US Highway 93 from Lolo to Missoula ending near the intersection with Reserve Street. Along with repairing asphalt, improvements planned include upgraded pavement markings and guardrails, added shoulder rumble strips, and a high friction surface treatment. The project is expected to start sometime in 2024, but only after funds are available. (Missoulian)

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Today in Missoula:

• Tiny Tales At Missoula Public Library (10:30 AM)

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From my notebook:

• On Saturday, Mar. 25, head to the Missoula Public Library from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a seed swap event to get some free seeds and gardening tips from local experts. You can also come to trade in unwanted houseplants for new ones! (Missoula Public Library via Facebook)
• If you are a farmer or know one, state officials are asking all farmers to sign up for the Farm Direct Program, which would allow them to accept WIC payments at farmers' markets, roadside stands, or at the farm. The market season runs from Jun. 15 to Sep. 30, and farmers have until Oct. 31 to redeem their vouchers at their local bank for payment. (NBC Montana)
• Jimmy Eat World fans are in for a treat this July as the band will visit Missoula along with the Manchester Orchestra and Middle Kids. It's happening at Big Sky Brewing on Jul. 11, and tickets are on sale now at the link. (TicketWeb)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Thursday. I'll see you around!

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.