Downtown SAM Preparation Guide Major Construction Business Resources
It’s inevitable for any vibrant downtown to see construction from time to time, and Downtown Missoula has certainly seen its share. With upcoming projects like the City of Missoula’s Downtown Safety, Access, and Mobility Project (Downtown SAM), businesses and employers should start preparing now to minimize disruptions.
While the Downtown Missoula Partnership will work closely with the City and other stakeholders to share updates and provide support, these projects are fully led and executed by the City of Missoula. For the most accurate updates, visit the Engage Missoula page using the button below.
Downtown SAM and Construction Preparation Guide
The tabs and information below serve as a guide to help business owners, managers, and economic development professionals support businesses before, during, and after a major street construction project, such as Downtown SAM. It focuses on minimizing disruption, maintaining revenue, strengthening partnerships, and positioning businesses for long-term success.
This guide is organized by timeline, with clear actions at each stage. Use it as a reference throughout any major construction project that may impact your business, organization, or day-to-day operations in downtown.
12 Months Before Construction
Financial Preparation
- Consider reviewing cash flow and building a reserve, if possible
- Reach out to lenders, SBDCs, or local business support organizations about:
- Lines of credit
- Emergency or bridge funding
- Grant opportunities
- Short-term working capital
- Take time to review your insurance policy for business disruption coverage
- Schedule a one-on-one meeting with Business Development Director, Christine Littig, for additional resources
Evaluate Customer & Brand Strategy
- Start identifying your top customer segments
- Review your online presence, including:
- Google Business Profile
- Website accuracy
- Social media channels
- Email list quality
- Begin collecting customer emails and text messaging opt-ins
Consider Diversifying Revenue Streams (Early Setup)
- Explore options such as:
- E-commerce or online ordering
- Delivery and curbside pickup
- Subscription or membership programs
- Gift cards and prepaid packages
- If it makes sense for your business, try piloting at least one new revenue channel before construction begins
Partnership Building
- Attend a “Construction Readiness Meeting” with businesses on your block
- Begin identifying shared goals, such as:
- Joint promotions
- Shared signage
- Cost-sharing for advertising
- Obtain a shared contact list from the DMP to help create a group chat for quick communications
6 Months Before Construction
Marketing & Communication
- Consider creating your own FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) for your customers or utilize the project’s FAQ on the Engage Missoula Helpful Topics might include:
- How to access your business
- Parking options nearby
- Delivery alternatives
- Online shopping alternatives
Begin to Implement Revenue Activation
- Start setting up an online store or ordering platform
- Explore delivery partnerships (DoorDash, Uber Eats, local couriers)
- Look into corporate or bulk sales options
- Promote gift cards, bundles, and prepaid services
Consider Revenue Diversification
- Test online exclusive products
- Explore subscription boxes or recurring service
- Consider virtual consultations or classes
- Track which channels perform best and continue investing in the most effective ones
Look into Partnerships & Promotions
- Consider offering “Construction Specials”
- Explore passport or punch card programs
- Begin to coordinate shared loyalty discounts
- Start to plan a group event (pop-up market, sidewalk sale, open house)
Media & Community Outreach
- Consider pitching a positive story to local media such as:
- “Businesses Prepare for Major Street Upgrade”
- Explore radio and/or television opportunities if they feel like a good fit
3 Months Before Construction
Final Communications Push
- Send a countdown email and social media series to help communicate:
- What’s changing
- What’s staying the same
- How customers can continue to shop and support
- Update Google Maps and navigation notes
Signage & Wayfinding
- Acquire and put up “Open During Construction” signage from the DMP
- Add window posters with QR codes linked to your menu or website
Operations Planning
- Consider adjusting hours, if needed, around construction schedules
- Prepare staff to explain access and detours to customers
- Identify alternate suppliers or delivery routes where possible
Staff Readiness
- Share information with staff about the project, including benefits, parking changes, and business access
- Designate a “Construction Liaison” on staff to attend meetings and monitor updates
- Request talking points from the city or the DMP
- Create a simple script for customer questions
Partner Coordination
- Finalize joint promotions calendar
- Confirm any cost-sharing for ads, mailers, or digital campaigns
- Consider meeting with the project team to stay informed on project updates
During Construction
Marketing & Communication
- Remind customers through the appropriate channels, that “we are open during construction”
- Share weekly updates with your staff and customers
- Share photos and/or videos showing how easy it still is to access your business
Customer Experience Enhancements
- Consider offering small customer appreciation promotions
- Introduce delivery or curbside incentives
- Look for ways to make the in-store experiences more welcoming, engaging, and enjoyable
Optimize Revenue Diversification
- Continue promoting online-exclusive products
- Expand subscription boxes or recurring services
- Offer virtual consultations or classes, if appropriate
- Monitor which channels perform best and continue focusing on those opportunities
Implement Partnership Activation
- Rotate “Featured Neighbor” spotlights on social media
- Collaborate on joint events such as pop-ups, live music, food or retail crawls
- Consider co-marketing with neighboring businesses, with customer and business permission where needed
Advocacy & Issue Resolution
- Encourage your construction liaison to document access, signage, or safety concerns
- Have your liaison attend project meetings when possible
- Stay in contact with contractors and project managers to share feedback and ask questions
After Construction
Re-Launch Campaign
- Consider hosting a Grand Re-Opening or Street Reveal event
- Run a limited-time promotion celebrating improved access and visibility
Media & Public Relations
- Pitch a success story such as “Local Businesses Thrive After Major Infrastructure Investment”
Customer Retention
- Thank customers for their continued support
- Offer loyalty bonuses or exclusive offers
- Survey customers on what worked well and what could have been improved during construction
Partnership Continuation
- Evaluate joint efforts and consider forming a long-term business alliance or corridor group.
- Plan quarterly collaborative promotions to keep the momentum going
Long-Term Growth
- Continue the most successful new revenue streams
- Consider investing in façade improvements, outdoor seating, or enhanced signage.