We Want to Hear from You. 
Train Horn SID Survey Now Open!

The City of Missoula continues to work with community members to reduce train horn noise and its impact on residents and businesses in the Rattlesnake and Heart of Missoula neighborhoods. The City has identified two viable Federal Rail Administration (FRA)–approved options:

• Wayside horns at Madison/Greenough
• New gate arms at Taylor Street to reduce community noise while maintaining safety.

To move this project forward, we assembled a working group of community stakeholders, City Council representation, and Public Works & Mobility staff to understand the local impacts. Together, we decided to conduct a community survey to inform a potential SID request and to engage community members in finding a solution. The SID survey goals are:

• Understand the severity of train horn noise impact on residents and business owners.
• Gauge property owners’ interest in creating a SID to fund the remaining project cost.
• Determine appropriate SID configuration based on community interest, feedback, and impacted geography.

Why is an SID the being considered?

It provides a fair and direct way for those most impacted by train horn noise to invest in the solution. An SID ensures the City can move forward sooner, rather than waiting years for alternative funding that may never materialize. It creates a shared local partnership—leveraging the City’s existing commitment and MRA’s $200,000 contribution to maximize available resources. It results in a long-term quality-of-life improvement for the Lower Rattlesnake and surrounding neighborhoods. The total project cost is estimated at $921,000, leaving a gap we're exploring the possibility of filling through a Special Improvement District (SID).

What is the Survey Timeline?

• Nov. 10: Online survey is available now on EngageMissoula.com
• Nov. 12: Printed surveys and letters arrive in mailboxes.
• Dec. 5: Survey closes.
• Dec. 29: Results compiled and SID recommendation finalized.
• Early 2026: City may present a proposed SID to City Council.

Take the Survey & Give Your Feedback Today!