Major parks and recreation improvements are planned for several rural communities in Missoula County, as $90,000 in grants have been awarded through the county’s Parks, Trails and Recreation division. The funding will support projects in Bonner, Clinton, Ninemile, Potomac, and Seeley Lake.
Six initiatives will receive financial support this year from the Community Parks and Recreation Grants Program. The Seeley Lake Nordic Ski Trails project is set to receive $26,985 for upgrades to its beginner trail system. This includes adding fill material for surfacing, removing stumps, and restoring the site. Bonner Playground and Community Park will get $25,000 for phase two of playground improvements such as ADA accessible swings, a volleyball court, and additional play equipment.
Clinton Community Park Pavilion has been allocated $17,000 to build a universally accessible picnic pavilion with supporting amenities. Potomac School District Playground will use its $11,351.94 grant for a picnic shelter, ADA accessible tables, and a wildlife-resistant trash bin. The National Conservation Legacy Center Trail System is receiving $6,218.10 to install benches, dog waste stations, trash cans and recycling bins along the museum trail system west of the Missoula airport. Ninemile Community Center will utilize $3,444.96 for an on-site storage shed intended for maintenance and recreational equipment.
Laurie Shammel of the Seeley Lake Nordic Ski Club commented on the importance of this funding: “We’re thrilled to receive funding for the continued beginner area development at Seeley Creek! We have long recognized the need for this accessible terrain, but, as a small volunteer organization, are unable to accomplish such tasks without grant funding,” said Laurie Shammel, treasurer and grant administrator of the Seeley Lake Nordic Ski Club. “The new area includes ample space for trails, a teaching area and a kids’ play park to naturally develop agility on skis. These new trails will be a welcome addition to summer walkers and cyclists as well.”
The Community Parks and Recreation Grants Program works by partnering with local nonprofits and community groups who help maintain public parks through matched contributions that include project expenses or volunteer hours.
Bethany Gunther from Missoula County Parks expressed enthusiasm about these partnerships: “Our department is excited that we can continue offering this funding and partnership opportunity to help our rural communities improve their parks and recreation facilities,” said Bethany Gunther, Missoula County Parks, Trails and Recreation specialist. “It’s a great example of how public-private collaboration can lead to real benefits in a community.”
