Kalispell, Montana – Governor Greg Gianforte traveled to Kalispell to highlight a major infrastructure project that is already shaping the city’s future growth, as officials work to keep pace with rising demand for housing and essential services. The visit centered around a newly completed water tower, a towering structure that stands as both a physical and symbolic response to the pressures of expansion in one of Montana’s fastest-growing areas.
The new tower rises 170 feet into the air and holds up to 1 million gallons of water, a scale that reflects the growing needs of Kalispell’s north side. This part of the city has seen steady development, with new homes and neighborhoods continuing to appear, placing added strain on existing water systems. The new infrastructure is designed to ensure that as more people move into the area, water service remains stable, reliable, and capable of meeting daily demands.
“Across Montana, we’ve been working to make it easier to build and access housing, and that starts with infrastructure,” Gov. Gianforte said. “You can’t build homes without reliable water. Projects like this help unlock new housing opportunities, support growing communities, and ensure families have a place to call home.”
Expanding capacity to support long-term growth
The project did not happen overnight. Construction began in 2023 as part of a broader long-term plan aimed at strengthening Kalispell’s water system. City leaders recognized early that without added storage and improved reliability, future development could stall. By expanding capacity, the city is not only addressing current needs but also preparing for what lies ahead.
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Officials expect the water tower to provide enough additional capacity to serve the area for the next 20 years. It is also projected to support around 2,800 dwelling units, making it a central piece in the city’s effort to manage growth in a structured and sustainable way. Beyond residential use, the improved system will also benefit local businesses that rely on steady water access to operate effectively.
Funding for the project came through a mix of local and state support. Part of the financial backing was administered through the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, which works with communities to improve essential infrastructure. This combined approach allowed the city to move forward with a project that might otherwise have been delayed or scaled back.
Kalispell Public Works Director Susie Turner pointed to the direct impact the tower will have on daily life and future development. “This water tower is a key piece of infrastructure that allows us to support continued residential growth in north Kalispell,” Turner said. “It increases capacity, improves reliability, and ensures we can provide the level of service our residents expect as more homes are built in the area.”
The project also connects to a wider push by the governor to address housing challenges across Montana. In 2022, a bipartisan Housing Task Force was launched to explore ways to increase housing supply and reduce costs. The following year, a package of reforms was signed into law, focusing on reducing barriers to construction, expanding housing options, and streamlining zoning and permitting.
As these policies take effect, Montana is positioning itself as a leader in pro-housing efforts, with infrastructure investments like the Kalispell water tower playing a critical role in turning policy into reality.
