Missoula Police Emphasize School Zone Safety as City Completes Traffic Improvements Near Lowell Elementary

MISSOULA — As students returned to classrooms this week, the Missoula Police Department is emphasizing the importance of school zone safety, while the city continues implementing new infrastructure improvements designed to protect young pedestrians.

The police department issued a reminder Wednesday urging drivers to slow down and stay alert in school zones as traffic increases near schools. The message comes just days after the city completed major safety upgrades near Lowell Elementary School.

“Please watch for children walking, biking, and crossing the street, and remember that distractions like phones can wait until you’re parked,” the department said in a Facebook post. “Allow extra time during your morning commute as traffic increases near schools, and always obey crossing guards and posted speed limits.”

The timing coincides with the unveiling of significant safety improvements in the Lowell Elementary School zone. On August 22, the city’s Public Works and Mobility Department completed a new roundabout at the Scott and Phillips intersection, designed to naturally reduce vehicle speeds and enhance crosswalk safety.

The project also included widened sidewalks, improved lighting, buffered bike lanes on Scott Street, and parking delineators. The 45-day construction project finished under budget and on time, according to city officials.

In addition to the infrastructure changes, the Missoula City Council voted August 25 to reduce the speed limit to 15 mph in the Lowell Elementary School zone during hours of 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. City crews installed the new speed limit signs the following morning — the first day of school.

“After thoughtful discussion, Council Members voted to further enhance community safety by enacting a reduced speed limit of 15 MPH in the school zone,” according to a city announcement.

The police department emphasized that drivers must stop for school buses when red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended. Officers also highlighted the role of School Resource Officers in building connections with students and staff while maintaining safety.

“Our School Resource Officers will also be out and about, building connections with students and staff while helping ensure a safe and positive learning environment,” the department stated.

The comprehensive approach combines infrastructure improvements with enforcement and education. The roundabout project followed an engineering study conducted by city staff to evaluate permanently reducing the speed limit on Phillips Street within the school zone.

City officials credited collaboration between neighborhoods, Mayor Andrea Davis, the City Council, the Missoula Police Department, and project partners for the successful implementation.

“Every improvement we make together creates a safer Missoula for our community to walk, bike, or drive,” Public Works and Mobility staff said in announcing the completion of the Lowell Elementary improvements.