Billings, Montana, is on the brink of transformative economic growth, driven by several high-impact infrastructure, hospitality, and educational projects. These initiatives promise a dual benefit: a surge of short-term construction jobs and the creation of long-term professional opportunities that will leave a lasting impact on the local economy. Here's how each major project is shaping Billings' bright future:
The $1 billion Intermountain Health Hospital represents one of the region's largest investments, set to redefine Billings' healthcare landscape. This state-of-the-art facility is a financial powerhouse, offering numerous construction jobs during its development phase, including roles for contractors, laborers, electricians, and specialists. Once operational, the hospital will create sustained demand for medical professionals, administrative staff, and healthcare providers. Its presence is expected to draw patients from neighboring states, bolstering Billings’ position as a regional healthcare hub.
Big Sky Digital Infrastructure (BSDI), a Quantica platform, is leading the development of the Big Sky Campus — a 5,000-acre energy and technology hub taking shape just north of Billings in Yellowstone County. Designed to support the next generation of data, AI, and digital infrastructure, the campus will integrate renewable energy resources, reliable grid power from NorthWestern Energy, and newly expanded regional fiber connections. This unified foundation will position the Big Sky Campus as a powerful environment for advanced data centers and digital industries, driving long-term economic growth and opening new technological opportunities for Montana.
Addressing a nationwide nursing shortage, Montana State University’s new nursing school in Billings is set to train the next generation of healthcare professionals. During construction, the project will provide an array of skilled labor jobs. Once completed, the school will attract students, faculty, and healthcare providers to the area. The long-term impact includes a steady supply of skilled nurses who can support Billings’expanding healthcare infrastructure and the broader Montana healthcare system.
The first veterinary medical school in Montana, RVU’s facility is under construction at the Intermountain Healthcare development on Billings’west end. This groundbreaking project will address a critical need in Montana’s agricultural sector, which heavily relies on veterinary professionals. The school will generate construction jobs during its build-out and later attract students, faculty, and veterinary specialists. By bolstering the agricultural industry with highly educated professionals, the facility will foster innovation in animal health, agribusiness, and research.
The construction of a $45 million National guard training facility will play a vital role in enhancing state and national security readiness. This project will stimulate the local economy through construction and material procurement while supporting long-term employment for military trainers, administrative staff, and personnel.
As the largest public works project in Billings’history, the $68 million West End Water Treatment Facility is a critical investment in the city’s future. Beyond securing Billings’ water supply for generations, the project will drive job creation during construction and provide stability for the region’s growing population and industries.
Billings is progressing with the development of the Amend Park Recreation Campus (ARC), which will feature a $12 million two-sheet ice area, a turf soccer field, and multi-purpose indoor courts. The Yellowstone Ice Foundation, supported by a $6 million donation from Signal Peak Energy, is driving the project. The ice arena will host hockey events with seating for 3,000 people and attract sports tourism, benefiting local businesses. Price and public funding ensure no new taxes, with construction expected to begin in Spring. More update on the court’s forthcoming. The addition of a $16 million ice arena will serve as both a recreational asset and an economic drive for Billings.
The first hotel to be built downtown in 45 years, a new seven story Marriott hotel is planned for the corner of SecondAvenue North and North 27th Street. This $40 million upscale development will include 140 rooms and replace the current Rockman building at 2704 2nd Ave N., which will be demolished. The Billings City Council unanimously approved the $2.8 million sale of city hall and nearby properties to facilitate the project. This hotel will boost downtowns appeal, attract more visitors, and create jobs during construction and in hospitality services longterm.
These projects will transform Billings by fostering a highly skilled local workforce, including healthcare professionals, military trainers, veterinary specialists, and hospitality staff. The influx of employees, students, and residents will drive demand for housing, retail, and local services, creating a multiplier effect that boosts the economy. Billings will also gain recognition as a regional hub for healthcare, education, defense, and agriculture, attracting talent, investment, and innovation.Additionally, the heightened demand for real estate will fuel growth in both residential and commercial sectors, ensuring long-term prosperity.
With these strategic investments, Billings is well on its way to becoming a dynamic regional leader. These projects are not only creating immediate job opportunities but also building a foundation for long-term economic diversification and success. The city’s transformation into a hub for innovation, education, and business will continue to attract talent and drive prosperity for generations to come.