Montana Town Enters Uncertain Future

Slag to the left. Felons to the right.

That could be the “Welcome” sign for folks entering Montana’s former Smelter City on Montana Highway 1.

The city’s gateway already is skirted by huge piles of black slag. If supporters get their way, the other side of the highway will feature a 600-bed prison.

Amy Verlanic, chamber of commerce director, said a recent poll of members saw significant support for a prison along the highway.

It would house inmates from the nearby Montana State Prison at Deer Lodge and at least two counties.

Most of the chamber members opposing the prison said they feared it could blemish the town’s appearance.

“The entry to our town would be double ugly with the slag/prison,” said one.