Lewistown Growth Policy Update and Land Use Plan

At the geographic center of Montana, Lewistown is characterized by lush hills, natural springs, working landscapes, and a historic Main Street. An important part of the city’s history is the presence of missile silos that the U.S. Air Force utilized in World War II. Lewistown was at a unique point in its history, as the Air Force planned to replace the missiles and renovate the silos over the following decade, which would involve constructing a workforce hub in the area to house 3,000 workers.

In 2023, the City hired Cushing Terrell to update their outdated 2006 Growth Policy, focusing on the implications of the massive project and how an influx of newcomers would impact the community. With the adoption of the Montana Land Use Planning Act (MLUPA), Lewistown opted into a more robust and progressive approach to planning, looking to Cushing Terrell’s experience for guidance. Under MLUPA, land use plans include population and housing needs projections, and are required to be tied to land use recommendations. Since this process was brand new in Montana, it required careful communication to the public regarding what was different about a land use plan and how this proactive method would benefit residents. A robust community engagement effort with well-attended public meetings resulted in overwhelming buy-in and community support for the plan.