MISSOULA — A new project proposal approved on Wednesday makes Missoula one of only five communities in the country to implement a unique zoning overlay tool.
The tool will be used locally on an apartment complex located at 508 South Third Street West.
According to city planner Emily Gluckin, the building was erected in 1909 and initially served as an apartment complex.
The building operated as a hospital in the 1920s and the medical staff later moved to what would become Community Medical Center. Eventually, the building reverted to apartments and has 16 units spanning three floors.
Developers will use this “AR Overlay” to create additional units while still preserving elements of the historic structure.
Members of the Missoula City Council said during Wednesday's special meeting that this type of project recognizes the value of our historical buildings, and also reduces the environmental hazards and costs of NEW construction.
