Share Can we focus on a more contiguous trail along the northern portion of the river? on Facebook
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Email Can we focus on a more contiguous trail along the northern portion of the river? link
Can we focus on a more contiguous trail along the northern portion of the river?
Bedstuy
asked
over 1 year ago
Thank you for your interest. Improving multi-modal connectivity in the project area is a major focus of the project, since it would enhance access to recreation, improve public safety, and contribute to the holistic success of the project. Connection of the existing pieces of Ron's River Trail is a challenge due to multiple property ownerships and steep slopes along the riverbank. However, the re-grading and restoration work involved in this project also provides a critical opportunity to incorporate the space needs of a trail corridor.
Share Why? Why are you doing this?
The city of Missoula can’t even afford to provide basic services like fire protection. Yet some infinite wisdom has decided they need to spend millions for a few to ride a wave. For how many months a year?
Does this mean anyone can do whatever they please with any river, stream, or brook? Or is the City of Missoula privileged in their capacity to ruin things?
What happens when rivers are altered? Disasters. Nature will make it the way it wants it.
Don’t be stupid and stop wasting money on improvements that aren’t. Do something with Marshall canyon. on Facebook
Share Why? Why are you doing this?
The city of Missoula can’t even afford to provide basic services like fire protection. Yet some infinite wisdom has decided they need to spend millions for a few to ride a wave. For how many months a year?
Does this mean anyone can do whatever they please with any river, stream, or brook? Or is the City of Missoula privileged in their capacity to ruin things?
What happens when rivers are altered? Disasters. Nature will make it the way it wants it.
Don’t be stupid and stop wasting money on improvements that aren’t. Do something with Marshall canyon. on Linkedin
Email Why? Why are you doing this?
The city of Missoula can’t even afford to provide basic services like fire protection. Yet some infinite wisdom has decided they need to spend millions for a few to ride a wave. For how many months a year?
Does this mean anyone can do whatever they please with any river, stream, or brook? Or is the City of Missoula privileged in their capacity to ruin things?
What happens when rivers are altered? Disasters. Nature will make it the way it wants it.
Don’t be stupid and stop wasting money on improvements that aren’t. Do something with Marshall canyon. link
Why? Why are you doing this?
The city of Missoula can’t even afford to provide basic services like fire protection. Yet some infinite wisdom has decided they need to spend millions for a few to ride a wave. For how many months a year?
Does this mean anyone can do whatever they please with any river, stream, or brook? Or is the City of Missoula privileged in their capacity to ruin things?
What happens when rivers are altered? Disasters. Nature will make it the way it wants it.
Don’t be stupid and stop wasting money on improvements that aren’t. Do something with Marshall canyon.
Chester
asked
7 months ago
Chester, thank you for your questions. The West Broadway River project was initiated to improve conditions in the Clark Fork River and adjacent areas. This project really began when the City, in partnership with MT Fish Wildlife and Parks and the Clark Fork Coalition, purchased the Flynn-Lowney irrigation ditch. That acquisition provided the City with valuable water rights available for drinking and fire protection as our City grows. It also saves our community millions of dollars in initial development and long-term road maintenance costs (no need to build dozens of ditch crossings & bridges) in the Mullan/Airport area.
Our community has identified MANY issues and opportunities in this several impacted section of the Clark Fork River. This includes collapsing riverbanks, disconnected pedestrian routes, degraded riparian areas, tons of waste construction debris, and numerous safety challenges. Without action, we will continue to see the issues identified on the Issues and Opportunities Map on this page, worsen and become more costly to fix. There are also many opportunities to make improvements within this stretch of river.
In order to fix issues, improve river function, and establish community trail connections, a significant amount of engineering, permitting and construction will be required. The project consultant team has significant experience in river restoration and rehabilitation projects, and their analysis at each step strongly weighs benefits to river health. In a Fall 2024 public survey that asked about proposed changes to the project area, a wave feature in an engineered side channel saw strong support and limited but important criticism. While a wave feature would add a minimal amount of construction cost to this very large project, both construction and long-term mainteance costs of ALL built features (eg. trails, boat ramp, bridges, trailheads etc.) must be considered. We are working with our project consultants to develop both construction costs and long-term maintenance requirements so our community can make informed decisions as we develop a final master plan for this project. As you mentioned in your comments, cost is not the only decision-making metric we will use. Weighing overall cost with potential public benefit is very important. Similar projects in other cities, and our own, have shown that popular recreation features can draw people, both recreationists and spectators, to an area and attract adjacent development to areas experiencing urban blight.
All potential modifications to the river are being thoroughly vetted and will go through all applicable permitting processes. Any recreation feature built below the high water mark must be reviewed & permitted though local, state & federal agencies. Any built feature on the riverbed, which would require recurring maintenance, also requires a lease agreement with the Dept. of Natural Resources.
Share Will the cars embedded in the river banks be removed as part of the debris removal efforts? on Facebook
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Email Will the cars embedded in the river banks be removed as part of the debris removal efforts? link
Will the cars embedded in the river banks be removed as part of the debris removal efforts?
Kyle J
asked
almost 2 years ago
Project Goal 3 addresses restoration of floodplain and riparian habitat:
- Remove debris armoring banks, and restore with natural materials.
Share Hello, How is the Island Park going to made more user friendly? What is the plan for the homeless tents that inhabit the whole area you are addressing ? Many families are intimidated by the presence of these camps and will not use the area Thanks on Facebook
Share Hello, How is the Island Park going to made more user friendly? What is the plan for the homeless tents that inhabit the whole area you are addressing ? Many families are intimidated by the presence of these camps and will not use the area Thanks on Linkedin
Email Hello, How is the Island Park going to made more user friendly? What is the plan for the homeless tents that inhabit the whole area you are addressing ? Many families are intimidated by the presence of these camps and will not use the area Thanks link
Hello, How is the Island Park going to made more user friendly? What is the plan for the homeless tents that inhabit the whole area you are addressing ? Many families are intimidated by the presence of these camps and will not use the area Thanks
Ric Mcleod
asked
almost 2 years ago
Thank you for the question. The City recognizes that homelessness is a complex issue that impacts the use and perception of public spaces like West Broadway Islands. City officials are working closely with social service providers to increase shelter capacity and connect individuals experiencing homelessness with additional resources. However, fully resolving homelessness extends beyond the scope of any single department or project.
For the West Broadway River Corridor (WBRC), our goal is to find solutions that protect public health and safety while being compassionate to all community members. This may involve deterring extended camping in the park while increasing outreach and access to services. But partnerships across government, nonprofits and the community will be key. We hope improvements to WBRC will benefit all residents. Please feel free to share other suggestions as we develop plans for the park.
Share Why did the developers of the five objectives include a sub objective that will evaluate the potential for in-stream whitewater structures when these features conflict with objectives #1, #2, #3 and #5? Fake engineered whitewater structures modify normative stream and floodplain functions, thereby often adversely affecting natural instream conditions, movement of aquatic organisms (such as fish and amphibians) and the ability of certain stream stages from inundating floodplains or riparian communities. Moreover, they create hydraulics that make it difficult, and at times unsafe, for the majority of people who float the river downtown in tubes, rubber duckies and other craft that aren’t easy to maneuver. In addition, why would they City consider investing in new in-stream infrastructure that would require expensive maintenance, given the turbulence and debris present when the Clark Fork River is high? Will the City in its consideration of in-stream structures consider the expense and liability risk of creating yet another fake whitewater feature in the river that demonstrates that a small minority of river users get to dominate the look and function of the river downtown? on Facebook
Share Why did the developers of the five objectives include a sub objective that will evaluate the potential for in-stream whitewater structures when these features conflict with objectives #1, #2, #3 and #5? Fake engineered whitewater structures modify normative stream and floodplain functions, thereby often adversely affecting natural instream conditions, movement of aquatic organisms (such as fish and amphibians) and the ability of certain stream stages from inundating floodplains or riparian communities. Moreover, they create hydraulics that make it difficult, and at times unsafe, for the majority of people who float the river downtown in tubes, rubber duckies and other craft that aren’t easy to maneuver. In addition, why would they City consider investing in new in-stream infrastructure that would require expensive maintenance, given the turbulence and debris present when the Clark Fork River is high? Will the City in its consideration of in-stream structures consider the expense and liability risk of creating yet another fake whitewater feature in the river that demonstrates that a small minority of river users get to dominate the look and function of the river downtown? on Linkedin
Email Why did the developers of the five objectives include a sub objective that will evaluate the potential for in-stream whitewater structures when these features conflict with objectives #1, #2, #3 and #5? Fake engineered whitewater structures modify normative stream and floodplain functions, thereby often adversely affecting natural instream conditions, movement of aquatic organisms (such as fish and amphibians) and the ability of certain stream stages from inundating floodplains or riparian communities. Moreover, they create hydraulics that make it difficult, and at times unsafe, for the majority of people who float the river downtown in tubes, rubber duckies and other craft that aren’t easy to maneuver. In addition, why would they City consider investing in new in-stream infrastructure that would require expensive maintenance, given the turbulence and debris present when the Clark Fork River is high? Will the City in its consideration of in-stream structures consider the expense and liability risk of creating yet another fake whitewater feature in the river that demonstrates that a small minority of river users get to dominate the look and function of the river downtown? link
Why did the developers of the five objectives include a sub objective that will evaluate the potential for in-stream whitewater structures when these features conflict with objectives #1, #2, #3 and #5? Fake engineered whitewater structures modify normative stream and floodplain functions, thereby often adversely affecting natural instream conditions, movement of aquatic organisms (such as fish and amphibians) and the ability of certain stream stages from inundating floodplains or riparian communities. Moreover, they create hydraulics that make it difficult, and at times unsafe, for the majority of people who float the river downtown in tubes, rubber duckies and other craft that aren’t easy to maneuver. In addition, why would they City consider investing in new in-stream infrastructure that would require expensive maintenance, given the turbulence and debris present when the Clark Fork River is high? Will the City in its consideration of in-stream structures consider the expense and liability risk of creating yet another fake whitewater feature in the river that demonstrates that a small minority of river users get to dominate the look and function of the river downtown?
Bruce1
asked
over 1 year ago
Thank you for your comment. This complex, multifaceted project is in the very early planning stages. At this stage, we're presenting a broad suite of possibilities for residents to consider. At the same time, we are collecting a significant amount of geophysical data from the site. We will use that data and public feedback to create a spectrum of design alternatives to share with the community. We hope that by spring 2024, we will have a master plan that meets community needs, is fiscally responsible and feasible to implement.
River work of this magnitude will require a variety of local, state and federal permits. Before construction can begin, project partners must demonstrate that the plan can achieve adequate fish passage, water quality, riparian health, flood mitigation, endangered species protection and public safety—regardless of whether a recreational wave is included.
Again, thank you for your comments. It's incredibly important for us to receive feedback from folks who are familiar with the project area and passionate about the Clark Fork. Please be sure to sign up to receive updates when we post more information to Engage Missoula.
Share Why is the Max wave plan not included in this proposal? The goals outlined in this project and the Max wave plan align but are not limited to the following regions:
-Recognize environmental, recreational, and social equity benefits.
-Mitigate bank erosion near stadium and trails.
-Increase visibility and activity in parks.
-Expand Silver Park boat ramp eddy.
-Consider flood protection.
Improve floater passage
-Foster public-private collaboration on design, funding, and implementation.
-Enhance quality of life and economic prosperity.
-Consider funding, costs, and timeline to maximize benefits.
-Address long-term maintenance challenges.
-Recontour the riverbed to improve habitat.
-Limit soil erosion into river.
-Explore options for in-stream recreation features.
-Blend recreation access and river function.
on Facebook
Share Why is the Max wave plan not included in this proposal? The goals outlined in this project and the Max wave plan align but are not limited to the following regions:
-Recognize environmental, recreational, and social equity benefits.
-Mitigate bank erosion near stadium and trails.
-Increase visibility and activity in parks.
-Expand Silver Park boat ramp eddy.
-Consider flood protection.
Improve floater passage
-Foster public-private collaboration on design, funding, and implementation.
-Enhance quality of life and economic prosperity.
-Consider funding, costs, and timeline to maximize benefits.
-Address long-term maintenance challenges.
-Recontour the riverbed to improve habitat.
-Limit soil erosion into river.
-Explore options for in-stream recreation features.
-Blend recreation access and river function.
on Linkedin
Email Why is the Max wave plan not included in this proposal? The goals outlined in this project and the Max wave plan align but are not limited to the following regions:
-Recognize environmental, recreational, and social equity benefits.
-Mitigate bank erosion near stadium and trails.
-Increase visibility and activity in parks.
-Expand Silver Park boat ramp eddy.
-Consider flood protection.
Improve floater passage
-Foster public-private collaboration on design, funding, and implementation.
-Enhance quality of life and economic prosperity.
-Consider funding, costs, and timeline to maximize benefits.
-Address long-term maintenance challenges.
-Recontour the riverbed to improve habitat.
-Limit soil erosion into river.
-Explore options for in-stream recreation features.
-Blend recreation access and river function.
link
Why is the Max wave plan not included in this proposal? The goals outlined in this project and the Max wave plan align but are not limited to the following regions:
-Recognize environmental, recreational, and social equity benefits.
-Mitigate bank erosion near stadium and trails.
-Increase visibility and activity in parks.
-Expand Silver Park boat ramp eddy.
-Consider flood protection.
Improve floater passage
-Foster public-private collaboration on design, funding, and implementation.
-Enhance quality of life and economic prosperity.
-Consider funding, costs, and timeline to maximize benefits.
-Address long-term maintenance challenges.
-Recontour the riverbed to improve habitat.
-Limit soil erosion into river.
-Explore options for in-stream recreation features.
-Blend recreation access and river function.
Jack Peabody
asked
almost 2 years ago
As part of this project's public scoping and design, we are exploring options to expand recreation access and opportunities along the river. Project Goal #4 references potential priorities, including exploration of in-stream wave features.
During this public scoping period, we need your input. Please take a few minutes to complete our public comment survey by September 21. Let us know how you currently use the river and adjacent parks and trails and what access or recreation options you want added. Some potential options include new and improved trails, new walk-in river access points, in-stream wave features, an improved boat ramp and more.
Our team will use public feedback and geophysical data collected on-site to develop multiple design alternatives. We will present these alternatives later this winter in a second public comment period. There will be ample opportunity to discuss the pros and cons of each design and share your thoughts.
Ultimately, we want to find the right balance between improving natural river function and enhancing responsible public recreation access. With your input, we can ensure the final plans align with what matters most to residents. Please participate in the survey and help shape the future of your river!
Share Is there any talk of including a surfing wave? on Facebook
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Is there any talk of including a surfing wave?
atlasm
asked
almost 2 years ago
We appreciate your interest in the potential wave features along the river as part of this restoration project. As outlined in Project Goal #4, we are actively exploring in-stream wave features to expand recreation access and enhance the user experience. Our team will develop several design alternatives based on public input and on-site data collection.
We encourage everyone to share their perspectives on wave features and other potential amenities through the public comment survey open until September 21. Your feedback will directly inform the proposals we present this winter. There will be additional opportunities to weigh in on the pros and cons of each design.
We aim to find the right mix of recreation options that align with community priorities. Please make your voice heard in the survey so we can factor local needs into the final plans. Together, we can shape an improved river that balances ecological and recreational goals.
Share Max Wave will improve the whole area as well as negate erosion while providing what surely will be an incredibly successful recreation area similar to Brennans wave on Facebook
Share Max Wave will improve the whole area as well as negate erosion while providing what surely will be an incredibly successful recreation area similar to Brennans wave on Linkedin
Email Max Wave will improve the whole area as well as negate erosion while providing what surely will be an incredibly successful recreation area similar to Brennans wave link
Max Wave will improve the whole area as well as negate erosion while providing what surely will be an incredibly successful recreation area similar to Brennans wave
Henri
asked
almost 2 years ago
An in-stream wave feature is one of the recreational access options currently on the table for this project. As part of Project Goal #4, our team is exploring the feasibility and desirability of incorporating wave features to enhance the user experience along the river.
We recognize varied perspectives on whether these amenities should be part of the final plans. That's why we need to hear from you! Your input through the public comment survey open until 9/21 will directly inform the design alternatives we develop this winter. Once we present the proposals, there will be additional opportunities to share feedback on the pros and cons of each option.
We aim to balance ecological restoration and recreational enhancements. We encourage you to make your voice heard on if and how wave features could improve the river while aligning with broader restoration goals. Your participation in shaping these plans is greatly appreciated!
A thorough master planning process is critical in order to ensure we are alignment with the public’s goals, and to be competitive for grants to help us implement the project. The Missoula Redevelopment Agency Board approved using tax increment financing (TIF) funds from Urban Renewal District II for master planning professional and engineering services. Trout Unlimited is serving as project manager with oversight from the project working group, and the consultant team includes River Design Group, Morrison-Maierle, Field Studio Landscape Architects, and Recreation Engineering and Planning. 
Memorandum for City of Missoula, Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks and Trout Unlimited.pdf (1.08 MB) (pdf)
West Broadway River Corridor Draft Concepts
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