Commissioners qualify Marshall Mountain Park base-area redevelopment for trails bond matching

Missoula County commissioners voted to qualify the Marshall Mountain Park base-area redevelopment project for Trails Bond Program consideration.

"We're requesting those Trails Bond Program funds for the purpose of funding trailhead development improvements at Marshall Mountain Park," said Jackson, a county presenter, describing kiosks with signage and maps, additional bear-proof trash receptacles, bike racks, drinking fountains and "an ADA compliant double vault restroom." The qualifying resolution lists an eligibility amount of $176,581 on the agenda. County staff said the Trails Bond request would represent roughly 10% of the overall project cost and would be combined with an upcoming Land and Water Conservation Fund application and private fundraising by Friends of Marshall Mountain.

Missoula County Parks and Trails Advisory Board reviewed the level 2 application and passed a motion recommending expenditure for the project, the presenter said. Commissioners moved and seconded the qualifying resolution and approved it by voice vote. The presenter told the board he would return later in the month with a more detailed presentation if the resolution passes the qualification step.

The action at this meeting was a qualifying resolution only; no full funding award from Trails Bond Program or Land and Water Conservation Fund was made at this session. Staff indicated the qualifying step allows the county to apply for bond funds and that more detailed budget and design material will be presented at a later hearing.