After several years of delays, public pushback and shifting partners, a long-awaited future is once again taking shape for the former Missoulian newspaper property on Higgins Avenue in Missoula.
Missoula-based developer Cole Bergquist, known locally for his time as a Montana Grizzly quarterback, announced Higgins Waterfront — a new mixed-use development planned along the Clark Fork River and the Hip Strip, a key connection point between downtown and the University District.
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Bergquist shared renderings and early details Wednesday as part of a renewed development strategy.
He wrote that the project will bring “new life to the area where downtown meets the University District.”
The proposed development features:
• 80 residential units — including condos, penthouses and two-story townhomes
• A 155-room hotel with access to amenities for residents
• Retail and dining space supporting local businesses
• A year-round rooftop bar and restaurant with river views
This model aims to attract both Missoulians and visitors, enhancing foot traffic along the riverfront corridor and encouraging public access to nearby amenities and trails.
A key change in the revived plan is a new partner: Hawkins, a Boise-based development firm active in nearly 30 states.
The previous iteration of the development collapsed following controversy involving Utah investor Aaron Wagner, who was later indicted on federal wire fraud and money laundering charges. His online comments also drew community opposition that halted momentum in 2021.
The new design, according to Bergquist, has been refined for efficiency and better aligned with Missoula’s downtown master plan.
“We’ve already received strong interest from investors and formal offers from several hotel brands,”
Bergquist wrote.
“The first capital raise is complete, and we’re now preparing for the second, which will fund construction.”
He emphasized that involvement from the local community remains a top priority:
The goal is to keep the development as local as possible so Missoulians and Montanans can take part in what he calls a landmark project for the city.
While no groundbreaking date has been set, early investor interest and momentum suggest the project is moving forward after years of uncertainty. Developers believe Higgins Waterfront can become a contributing anchor to the growing riverfront, enhancing connectivity and economic activity between major districts.
The site has sat largely dormant since the Missoulian relocated, making its redevelopment one of Missoula’s most-watched urban projects.
Originally reported by Natalie McAlpine in KPAX.
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