Host Taylor Inman details the major shifts coming to Northwest Montana this year, starting with a significant overhaul of visitor access in Glacier National Park. As the park officially ends its vehicle reservation system, officials are introducing a new ticketed shuttle service and a three-hour parking limit at Logan Pass to manage congestion. We also look at the extensive construction schedule for 2026, including utility and road projects at Two Medicine and St. Mary that will result in seasonal closures.

The episode also breaks down the 2026 Economic Outlook for the region. Despite a national "no hire, no fire" economy, Flathead County continues to lead Montana in employment growth, fueled by persistent in-migration and a rebounding multi-family housing market. Finally, we cover a $2.3 million jury award in a personal injury lawsuit against BNSF Railway involving a longtime Whitefish engineer, marking a major legal conclusion to a three-year battle.

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

This summer, we followed the Brist family from their fifth-generation Montana farm to the bright lights of the Northwest Montana Fair. From early morning chores to the intensity of the show ring, their journey shows the hard work, tradition, and bittersweet goodbyes that come with raising livestock. Discover Season 4 of our Deep Dive podcast, From Farm to Fair — coming Sunday, September 21st!

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