Missoula Parking Commission Votes to Expand Jurisdiction to Hip Strip

The Missoula Parking Commission voted to expand the parking jurisdiction to the Hip Strip area of Missoula at their meeting on September 9th.  

The next step will be for the resolution to be put before the city council for approval.  

If approved Missoula’s Hip Strip will have parking enforcement at the beginning of 2026. 

According to Jodi Pilgrim, Missoula’s Parking Services Director, the parking commission is going to be working with businesses and residents in the area once the jurisdiction expansion happens.   

“What we need to determine is the best way to manage what is currently set up as two-hour time-limited parking in the area," said Pilgrim.

What the Parking Expansion Means for the Hip Strip

They will be looking at parking strategies through possibly the end of October.  

Will Parking Meters Be Installed?

Pilgrim was asked about meters being installed in January, but said that isn't happening yet. The parking commission will monitor the enforcement in order to decide on the best way for management.  

READ MORE: ICYMI: Traffic Changes Are Coming to One of Missoula’s Busiest Spots

Parking on Higgins in the Hip Strip area isn’t an easy thing to do. Getting in and out of your vehicle is tough because of the narrow street. I am always afraid I will lose a side mirror or open my car door and have it clipped by another car on the street.

READ MORE: Parking Meters on the Hip Strip? Missoula Residents Asked to Weigh In 

Parking is just one of the many changes that Missoula is making to the downtown area. 

You can watch the Missoula Parking Commission meeting below from MCAT on YouTube here.